Manchester United are trying to convince highly-rated teenager JJ Gabriel to stay at the club after the 15-year-old reportedly asked to leave just four matches into the Premier League season.
United turned down a letter from Gabriel requesting de-registration but remain hopeful the situation can be sorted out.
The club value the youngster highly but believe there are only so many young players who can be gradually integrated into the first team.
United point to his involvement in pre-season and the plan to include him in the Carabao Cup squad against Brighton as evidence of that.
The club also faces the expectation to deliver success this season with qualification for the Champions League, meaning regular game time is hard to offer to a 15-year-old.
United face transfer tussle. United have previously fended off interest from City and have been working to keep Gabriel, with Jason Wilcox said to have been an important figure in the negotiations.
Sources close to the club are adamant the teenager is not to blame for the controversy due to his age and heavy dependence on adults making decisions about his career.
Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona are among clubs linked with the teenager, while Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus have also been believed to be tracking his career.
Gabriel’s current deal is due to expire next summer, meaning United are facing an urgent battle to keep hold of a hugely promising young star.
