Man United wonderkid JJ Gabriel following move to Real Madrid: ‘My dream is to win the Ballon d’Or’

Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel has revealed that his ultimate ambition is to win the Ballon d’Or after opting to continue his development at Real Madrid (Marca).

The Spanish giants are working to finalise a deal for the highly rated teenager. The 16-year-old has already arrived in Madrid, where he is training alone as he prepares for the next stage of his career.

The forward also made his preference clear when asked to choose between Madrid and Barcelona, responding emphatically in favour of the former.

Gabriel’s proposed move is a blow for Man United. The Red Devils had hoped to retain one of the brightest prospects to emerge from their academy in recent years.

Madrid are keen to bring Gabriel into Real Madrid Castilla, their reserve side that has helped prepare several young talents for senior football, including Vinicius Junior and Federico Valverde.

However, the transfer is yet to be formally completed, with his registration at United creating a major obstacle.

His representative, Ali Barat, is working on finalising the terms of a contract with the Spanish giants while also helping arrange accommodation for the teenager and his family.

International transfer regulations governing minors have complicated the process, although exceptions apply to eligible players aged 16 to 18 moving within the European Union.

Gabriel’s Irish passport could prove crucial in the transfer process.

January is the first opportunity to register him, potentially delaying an official announcement until the winter transfer window.

Man United reportedly explored several ways to convince Gabriel to stay, including offering him a contract extension and a box at the proposed new Old Trafford.

Those efforts have seemingly failed to change his mind, with Madrid now well-positioned to secure his services.

The financial compensation United could receive for losing the youngster is also expected to fall well short of the value they believe his potential represents.

The figure will be around £350,000 in training compensation.