Jude Bellingham 'intervenes in JJ Gabriel transfer' as Man United compensation fee emerges

Real Madrid close to signing 16-year-old Gabriel from Manchester United; Jude Bellingham reportedly helping convince the teenager to move.

Real Madrid are reported to be close to agreeing a deal to sign Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel in the January transfer window. The 16-year-old has long been linked with a move away from Old Trafford after expressing a desire to leave last September.

According to Spanish outlet Sport, Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has played a significant role in convincing Gabriel to join the La Liga club and will become his mentor once the move is completed. Gabriel is expected to initially feature for Madrid's reserve team, Real Madrid Castilla, rather than the first team under Jose Mourinho.

United would receive compensation if Gabriel departs, with the fee expected to be between £100,000 and £300,000, though Madrid have reportedly been willing to pay up to £8.5 million. However, United have expressed surprise at reports of an imminent deal and claim they have not yet been in contact with Madrid about the transfer.