Transfer Centre

Atletico Madrid in advanced talks to sign Alvaro Morata?

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 17 January 2019

Atletico in advanced talks to sign Morata?

Atletico Madrid are close to reaching an agreement with Chelsea for the signing of Spanish striker Alvaro Morata, according to a report.

Atletico Madrid are reportedly in advanced talks with Chelsea over a permanent deal for £45m-rated striker Alvaro Morata.

The Spain international has been given the green light to depart Stamford Bridge this month after being shut out by boss Maurizio Sarri.

Morata has struggled to settle in West London, scoring just 16 goals in 47 Premier League appearances, and Chelsea are looking to recoup as much money as possible for a player that cost between £58m and £70m less than two years ago.

Despite the 26-year-old's salary proving a problem in negotiations, Sky Sports News reports that a transfer could be close to going through.

Chelsea will first await the arrival of a replacement, with Gonzalo Higuain seemingly on the brink of joining on an initial loan deal from Juventus.

Atletico have been on the lookout for a new goalscorer due to concerns over ex-Chelsea ace Diego Costa, who has struggled to stay fit this season and has just one league goal to his name.