Alvaro Morata has emerged as Manchester United’s top transfer target as they aim to make the key signing to succeed Zlatan Ibrahmovic as their main centre-forward.

The Spain forward is regarded as a more viable option right now by United manager Jose Mourinho than Torino striker Andrea Belotti or Everton’s Romelu Lukaku who are far more expensive.

United’s interest in Morata is separate from any negotiations that may take place over David De Gea although it would be expected that Real Madrid may try and open talks over the goalkeeper.

Morata is valued at around £50million although United are expected to bid less than that. Whatever fee is agreed it will be substantially lower than the £100million Everton are still quoting for Lukaku and the 100 million euros (£87million) release clause Torino are insisting they want for Belotti.