JJ Gabriel during a Manchester United youth game stood with his hands on his hips.Image source, Getty Images
Image caption, Gabriel played against Atletico Madrid on Manchester United's pre-season tour
Manchester United forward JJ Gabriel says his "dream is to win the Ballon d'Or", as he closes in on a move to Real Madrid.
The 16-year-old is still registered at United but has been training on his own in Spain after walking out on the club and relocating with his family.
He has subsequently reached a verbal agreement to join Real Madrid but no deal has been signed as yet.
On Friday, following one of his sessions, the teenager was approached by Spanish news outlet Marca who presented him with a copy of their newspaper, which featured a front-page story about his expected move to Los Blancos.
The newspaper reported he told them in English: "My dream is to win a Ballon d'Or."
United would be due compensation should Gabriel leave, although the figure will be lower if he signs for a club outside the Premier League.
Though no club-to-club talks have been held, sources have told BBC Sport that Real have verbally agreed a deal with Gabriel and his representatives.
Gabriel, who scored a hat-trick on his Uefa Youth League debut, has secured a European Union passport, which is expected to make it easier for him to sign for a club outside England.
He was named the Premier League's Under-18 player of the season last term, despite being only 14 when the season began.
Sutton's predictions v Football Manager 27
Sutton's predictions v Football Manager 27
A graphic of Premier League players from every team in the division in 2025-26 season, with the Premier League trophy in front of them.
A graphic of Premier League players from every team in the division in 2025-26 season, with the Premier League trophy in front of them.
Usman Khawaja claims entire Australia team knew about sandpaper use
Usman Khawaja claims entire Australia team knew about sandpaper use
Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford
Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford
Alexia Putellas poses on the red carpet of the 2026 Ballon D'or
Alexia Putellas poses on the red carpet of the 2026 Ballon D'or
Everton manager David Moyes during his post-match interview, with an image of goalscorer Thierno Barry smiling
Everton manager David Moyes during his post-match interview, with an image of goalscorer Thierno Barry smiling
Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford
Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford
Manchester United fans on Michael Carrick
Manchester United fans on Michael Carrick