The teenager informed United of his wish to leave last month and is now expected to depart, with interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.
The Sun reported that Manchester United could pursue action against anyone involved in facilitating Gabriel’s exit, particularly if the England Under-17 international moves abroad. The club would receive only limited compensation if the midfielder leaves before signing a professional contract.
Gabriel has attracted interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, while Manchester City have also not ruled out pursuing the teenager.
The situation began when Gabriel told United that he wanted his registration cancelled. The club had expected him to be involved around the first team and had been working to provide a pathway for his development.
The teenager has been at United since the age of 11 and has built a reputation as one of the most closely watched prospects in the academy. He has scored heavily at youth level and recently made his UEFA Youth League debut.
His representatives have also become involved in the dispute. Agent Ali Barat received Football Association authorisation to represent minors on the same day that Gabriel’s wish to leave emerged.
Barat’s agency, Epic Sports, has already handled major transfers and has held discussions with clubs interested in Gabriel.
United’s concern is not simply losing a promising player. Because Gabriel is still only 15, the club’s ability to protect its investment and receive compensation differs from the situation involving an established professional.
The teenager has continued to train abroad during the dispute and has recently been working at a Barcelona training camp. His social-media activity has also fuelled speculation, with his brother pictured wearing a Barcelona training top in one of the posts Gabriel re-added.
Real Madrid have been strongly linked with the player, while Barcelona and Bayern remain among the clubs monitoring his situation.
United are therefore considering whether the regulatory framework gives them grounds to challenge any attempt to facilitate Gabriel’s departure. The club has also sought clarification over the registration process, although the Football Association has not confirmed whether an agent has formally registered Gabriel.
The situation remains unresolved, with Gabriel’s future likely to become clearer as discussions between the player, his representatives and interested clubs continue.
For United, the priority is now determining whether the teenager can be persuaded to remain or whether they will have to pursue other avenues to protect their position as one of the country’s most closely watched academy prospects.