Real Madrid are confident of securing the signature of Manchester United forward JJ Gabriel, the 16-year-old prodigy who has not returned to the club since walking out in September.

Gabriel featured for United during their pre-season tour, appearing against Atletico Madrid, and had been tipped to become the club's youngest-ever first-team debutant in September's Carabao Cup fixture against Brighton. Instead, he chose to pursue senior football elsewhere and has since been training independently in Spain.

European giants circle

His availability drew interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs, with Barcelona and Paris St-Germain among those to register their interest. However, Real Madrid — managed by Jose Mourinho — are considered the clear frontrunners for his signature.

Gabriel's prospects of completing a move abroad have been boosted by his European Union passport, which is expected to simplify the process of joining a club outside England. United would be entitled to compensation should he depart, though the figure is likely to be reduced if he signs with a club outside the Premier League.

A talent unlike any other

The forward announced himself on the continental stage by scoring a hat-trick on his Uefa Youth League debut — a remarkable achievement for a player of his age. Last season, he was awarded the Premier League's Under-18 Player of the Season, despite being only 14 years old when the campaign began.

A United source described him earlier this year as