JJ Gabriel says his dream is to win the Ballon d'Or, as he nears a move to Real Madrid. The 16-year-old is still registered at Manchester United but has been training solo in Spain after leaving the club with his family. He has a verbal agreement with Real, but no contract signed yet.
The situation gained attention when Spanish outlet Marca presented him a newspaper featuring his expected transfer. Gabriel reportedly told them in English, "My dream is to win a Ballon d'Or." United would receive compensation, though the amount drops if he moves outside the Premier League. Sources confirm Real Madrid has verbally agreed terms with JJ Gabriel and his reps.
Despite holding JJ Gabriel's domestic registration, Manchester United cannot block an overseas move as he holds an EU passport via his Cypriot mother. He remains eligible for the UEFA Youth League, but competition rules prevent him from playing for two clubs in one season. JJ Gabriel scored a hat‑trick for United against Sabah before being named Premier League's Under‑18 player of the season.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing