JJ Gabriel has set himself a huge target at Real Madrid

The 16-year-old gave an interview to Spanish newspaper Marca while training individually in Madrid, having not returned to United since requesting to leave the club in September.

Gabriel was presented with a front page of the newspaper featuring himself and responded: "Can I keep it?"

The forward was also asked why he preferred Real Madrid to Barcelona, with the teenager making his choice clear by replying: "Obviously, Madrid."

He then outlined his biggest ambition in football, saying: "My dream is to win a Ballon d'Or."

Gabriel is understood to have reached a verbal agreement with Real Madrid, who are hoping to complete the move in January. The Spanish club are planning for him to develop with their reserve side, Castilla, before potentially progressing into the first team.

The teenager has already spent time training in Barcelona before moving to the Spanish capital, where his representative Ali Barat is handling negotiations and helping arrange accommodation for Gabriel and his family.

His Irish passport is expected to make a move to Spain possible under FIFA regulations allowing certain players aged 16 to 18 to transfer within the European Union. However, Gabriel remains registered with United, meaning he cannot yet represent another club.

United are disappointed to lose one of their highly-rated academy prospects and had attempted to persuade him to stay by offering a new contract and a pathway towards senior football.

The club could receive training compensation if the transfer is completed, with reports suggesting the figure could be around £350,000.

Gabriel scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut and was named Premier League Under-18 Player of the Season last term.