MU gives historic shirt number to 'Kid Messi'.

Gabriel was nicknamed "Kid Messi" because of his exquisite technique.

According to Mail Sport, Manchester United are trying to convince Gabriel to sign a new contract despite interest from several major European clubs, including direct rivals in the Premier League. Sporting Director Jason Wilcox and chief negotiator Matt Hargreaves are involved in finalizing the prodigy's future.

Shortly afterwards, Gabriel showed off a photo of himself wearing a Manchester United training kit with the number 95, the highest number ever given to a first-team player. The previous record belonged to Godwill Kunoki (number 87). Gabriel was highly regarded for having a first-team number despite being only 14 years old.

Gabriel is expected by Manchester United's coaches and internal staff to become the youngest player to ever appear in the club's history, even in the Premier League. Gabriel is only 14 years old and won't turn 15 until October this year, but he has already played outstandingly at the U18 level.

If he features in the Premier League next season, Gabriel could well break the record for the youngest player ever to appear in the league. Currently, this record is held by Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal (15 years and 181 days old).

JJ Gabriel, whose full name is Joseph Junior Andreou Gabriel, was born in London and trained at Chelsea, Arsenal, and West Ham before joining Manchester United. From a young age, he was known for his skillful technique.

Remarkably, at just 6 years old, Gabriel could juggle a ball 1,000 times in a row. At 9, he went viral with his "Kid Messi" video on YouTube – a nickname Gabriel now wants to shed to establish his own name.

MU's new Kid Messi (image 1)

Gabriel was signed by MU at the same time as Ronaldo's son in 2021.

Personal coach Alfie Brooks, who once coached Gabriel individually, had nothing but praise: "I've coached nearly 1,000 academy players, and JJ is the most outstanding talent I've ever seen. If he were in a Premier League dressing room now, he'd be more technically gifted than the big players."

Not only was Gabriel talented, but he also received a solid investment from his family. His father, former Republic of Ireland international Joe O'Cearuill, changed the family name to Gabriel to carry religious significance and help build an easily recognizable brand. Gabriel was also homeschooled and followed a strict nutritional regimen like a professional footballer.

Many scouts believe that, instead of Messi, Gabriel could follow the model of Ronaldo, a complete and explosive superstar. Even when Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. was at the Manchester United academy, the two were close friends, often visiting Ronaldo Sr.'s house to play and train together. CR7 even gifted Gabriel a signed jersey before leaving Old Trafford for Saudi Arabia.

At just 14 years old, "Kid Messi" has earned a place in the England U18 team and made his debut for the England U15 squad in February. Now, with a new contract, Manchester United are doing everything they can to ensure Gabriel remains a prized gem that no other club can steal.