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Manchester United are preparing for all eventualities as contract uncertainty looms over their academy jewel JJ Gabriel.
Head coach Michael Carrick and the Old Trafford hierarchy have drawn up contingency targets to safeguard the club’s long-term attacking depth.
At the top of that recruitment shortlist is RC Lens sensation Mezian Mesloub, who has taken French football by storm this year.
While United remain determined to keep Gabriel at the club, scouting reports on Mesloub have accelerated significantly in recent weeks.
JJ Gabriel Exit Stance Forces Urgent Contingency Plans
Gabriel, famously nicknamed ‘Kid Messi’ within Carrington circles, has reportedly expressed his desire to leave Manchester United.
The 15-year-old playmaker has caught the attention of European heavyweights, with Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Chelsea circling for his signature.
United chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Jason Wilcox are actively leading efforts to convince the teenager to commit his future to the club.
However, Carrick and the recruitment team cannot afford to be caught off guard if Gabriel ultimately forces a departure.
That reality has prompted United to search the continent for elite teenagers who can step in as future attacking pillars.
Who Is Lens Wonderkid Mezian Mesloub?
Mesloub has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in European football following a historic breakthrough at Lens.
The 16-year-old made headlines in May 2026 by scoring just five seconds into his senior Ligue 1 debut against Nantes.
That sensational strike sealed a 1-0 victory, fired Lens into the Champions League, and set a new record for the fastest debut goal in French top-flight history.
Operating primarily as an inverted right winger, Mesloub combines electric acceleration with exceptional balance and vision.
He is the son of former Algerian international Walid Mesloub, but currently represents Portugal at the Under-18 level.
Brexit Rules And Heavy European Competition
Landing Mesloub will not be simple for Manchester United due to post-Brexit international transfer restrictions.
FIFA regulations prevent English clubs from signing overseas players under the age of 18, meaning Mesloub cannot officially move to the UK until late 2027 or 2028.
This transfer hurdle gives continental suitors a distinct advantage in the race for his signature.
Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco are pushing hard to keep the teenager in France, while Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona are also monitoring his progress.
United’s scouts are keeping close tabs on his development, ensuring the club is positioned at the front of the queue if an opportunity opens up.
Carrick Looks To Build For The Future
Carrick understands that maintaining a steady pipeline of world-class young talent is central to United’s identity.
Losing a player of Gabriel’s pedigree would be a bitter pill for the academy setup to swallow.
By targeting dynamic creators like Mesloub, United are sending a clear message that their scouting network remains proactive and switched on.
The coming months will decide whether United can pull off a dramatic U-turn with Gabriel or turn their full attention toward securing Lens’ prized asset.