United close to tying down Ajayi as Gabriel pushes for Old Trafford exit

Manchester United are closing in on a long-term professional contract with teenage winger Noah Ajayi, according to the Daily Mail, as the club looks to secure one of its most promising academy talents amid the unsettling departure request from fellow youngster JJ Gabriel.

Ajayi, 17, moved to England from Hamburg at the age of 10 and signed his scholarship with United a year ago. He made his Under-21s debut in April 2025 and came off the bench during a 5-0 UEFA Youth League victory over Sabah last week. His first professional deal is now reported to be close to finalisation, committing his long-term future to Old Trafford. The winger had attracted interest from clubs in England and across Europe before United moved to secure him.

The positive news arrives at a difficult moment for the club’s academy setup. As reported by the Manchester Evening News, United were left in a state of shock after Gabriel informed the club he wants to leave. The attacker had been named in Michael Carrick’s squad for the Carabao Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion but declined to train with the group after submitting his request to depart.

Gabriel has been at United since the age of 11, and the club’s hierarchy remain unclear about what has prompted the decision. Real Madrid are reportedly confident of signing the teenager, who turns 16 next month — an age at which he would be free to sign for a European club.

United have also confirmed three further academy contract developments. Goalkeeper Fred Heath and defender Dante Plunkett have both signed their first professional deals, while midfielder Will Murdock has put pen to paper on his second professional contract at the club.

Heath was part of the senior group that travelled to Ireland during pre-season and is now part of United’s Under-21s setup alongside Murdock. Plunkett, who joined from Aston Villa, is a full international for Jamaica and made 12 appearances for United’s Under-18 side last season.