Manchester United academy starlet JJ Gabriel is likely to be included in their pre-season tour squad due to a shortage of senior players because of the World Cup, according to journalist Samuel Luckhurst.
The teenage sensation has been training regularly with the first team in recent months, but is currently ineligible to play in the Premier League this season.
Gabriel was still 14 years old when the current campaign started and could not be registered as a result.
The 15-year-old was eligible to feature in the FA Cup but was not included in the squad that faced Brighton & Hove Albion in January.
However, he could now make his senior debut during the pre-season. The friendly against Wrexham on July 18 or against Rosenborg six days later are potential dates for his first first-team appearance.
Gabriel won the Premier League under-18 Player of the Year award last night after a return of 26 goals in 28 appearances this season.
He is preparing for the FA Youth Cup against Manchester City tomorrow and will hope to crown the campaign with silverware.
United have a big talent on their hands, and they are desperate to hold on to him.
Barcelona and other clubs are monitoring the England under-17 international as he has yet to sign his professional contract.
However, director of football Jason Wilcox has taken measures to ensure Gabriel is not lured away from the club.
He has been a regular in first-team training and could break David Gaskell’s record. He is the club’s youngest-ever player after making his debut at 16 years and 19 days in 1956.
