Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel has revealed his ambition to win the Ballon d’Or as speculation over a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid continues to gather pace.
The 16-year-old remains registered with Manchester United but has been training independently in Spain after leaving the club and relocating with his family.
Gabriel has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Real Madrid, although no formal deal has been signed.
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The forward was approached by Spanish newspaper Marca on Friday after a training session and presented with a copy featuring a front-page story about his expected move to Los Blancos.
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According to the publication, Gabriel responded in English: “My dream is to win a Ballon d’Or.”
Manchester United would be entitled to compensation if Gabriel leaves, although the amount is expected to be lower if he joins a club outside the Premier League.
While no club-to-club negotiations have taken place, sources have told BBC Sport that Real Madrid have verbally agreed a deal with Gabriel and his representatives.
The youngster, who scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut, has also secured a European Union passport, a development expected to make it easier for him to join a club outside England.
Gabriel was named the Premier League’s Under-18 Player of the Season last term, despite being only 14 when the campaign began.
His potential departure would represent a significant setback for Manchester United’s academy, which has invested in developing one of the club’s most highly rated young prospects. His performances, including his UEFA Youth League debut hat-trick, have attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
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