Manchester United Transfer News: Alvaro Morata Negotiations Reportedly Ongoing

Talks between Real Madrid and Manchester United regarding Alvaro Morata are ongoing, with Los Blancos holding out for £78 million and rejecting a £52.4 million offer.

That's according to Sky Italia and Sky Sports News HQ, who report star goalkeeper David De Gea will not be part of the deal. 

Per the article, Morata has emerged as United's top target in attack after it became clear Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann will not leave his current club this summer. Torino's Andrea Belotti is an option if Real decide not to move on Morata.

The Spain international moved back to his boyhood club from Juventus last summer and enjoyed a fine season. In limited minutes, he scored 27 goals across all competitions. Per OptaJose (h/t Graham Hunter), his efficiency stood out:

Morata was known more as a playmaker during his time in Italy, creating openings for team-mates with his high work rate and clever running. He showed he's a capable scorer this season, however, explaining United's renewed interest.

The 24-year-old has also proved himself as a big-game player, powering Juventus' run to the UEFA Champions League final in 2015 with plenty of goals.

The reported price tag of £78 million is steep for a player who couldn't earn a full-time starting position in the Spanish capital last season, but goals always come at a premium and Real know United can afford it.