Real Madrid tracking 16-year-old Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora

Real Madrid are monitoring the progress of teenage Mexico midfielder Gilberto Mora, according to his agent Rafaela Pimenta. 

The 16-year-old, who currently plays for Liga MX side Xolos de Tijuana, has quickly established himself as one of the most promising talents in North America.

Pimenta confirmed speculation this week, telling Spanish outlet La Sexta that Europe’s top clubs have begun showing interest in Mora. 

She described the links to Madrid as “normal” given his age and talent, adding that discussions about his future are only just beginning.

Any potential move, however, will have to wait. FIFA regulations prohibit international transfers of players under the age of 18, meaning Mora is ineligible to move abroad for at least two more years. Until then, he is expected to continue his development with Tijuana.

Mora’s rise has been meteoric. Despite his age, he has already made 39 senior appearances in Liga MX and was part of the Mexico squad that lifted the Gold Cup earlier this summer. 

He has also represented his country in several international tournaments, where he has consistently been the youngest player on the pitch.

His agent emphasized that any eventual transfer will depend not only on interest from major clubs but also on ensuring the right environment for his growth.

“People everywhere are talking about him,” Pimenta said. “We’ll surely hear many more rumors, but the most important thing is that he goes where he’s happy.”

The midfielder remains focused on Tijuana’s Apertura 2025 campaign while also preparing for a packed international calendar. 

He could potentially play in three World Cups within the next year: the U-20 tournament in Chile this September, the U-17 competition in Qatar in November, and the senior FIFA World Cup when it kicks off in Mexico, the United States, and Canada in 2026.

Real Madrid’s season has started decently with two wins from two matches.