Manchester United forward JJ Gabriel has stated that his "dream is to win the Ballon d'Or" as he nears a switch to Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid. The 16-year-old remains registered with the Premier League side, but a verbal agreement is already in place regarding a transfer to Los Blancos, though pen has not yet been put to paper on a finalized deal.
Gabriel relocated with his family to Spain after walking out on United, where he has been conducting individual training sessions. Following a workout on Friday, the teenager was approached by Spanish media outlet Marca and shown a front-page edition highlighting his anticipated switch to Madrid. Responding in English, Gabriel reiterated his ultimate ambition: "My dream is to win a Ballon d'Or."
Sources have confirmed to BBC Sport that Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement with the forward and his representatives, although direct club-to-club negotiations are yet to take place. Manchester United will be entitled to compensation if he departs, though that financial sum will be lower because Gabriel is moving to a side outside of the English top flight. His transition abroad is expected to be streamlined after securing a European Union passport, easing the registration process for a team outside England.
The sought-after youngster has enjoyed a rapid rise at youth level, highlighted by scoring a hat-trick during his debut appearance in the Uefa Youth League. Gabriel, who also featured against Atletico Madrid during Manchester United's pre-season tour, earned the distinction of being named the Premier League's Under-18 player of the season last term, despite being merely 14 years old when that campaign commenced.
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