Manchester United “ended” their interest in Atletico Madrid striker Alvaro Morata after being put off by the Spaniard’s asking price, according to journalist Laurie Whitwell.
The Athletic‘s United correspondent reports that the former Chelsea star was a player being considered by the Manchester club but they weren’t willing to pay €35m (£29.5m) to secure his services:
Manchester United are preparing new Antony bid.
Ajax insisting on €100m but discussions have taken place over fee + structure.
Ambitious hopes Gakpo might also join are fading.
P.S. Morata talks ended last week over price.#MUFC @TheAthleticUKhttps://t.co/bVWg25nUN1
— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) August 24, 2022
Most United fans will probably be briefing a huge sigh of relief that Morata is no longer a target. The 29-year-old has struggled with confidence issues throughout his career, and he would hardly have thrived at Old Trafford.
There have also been reports that the Spanish international wasn’t particularly interested in returning to England either, so it has probably worked out for all parties involved.
It is believed that Erik ten Hag’s side are now unlikely to sign an out-and-out forward before the transfer deadline, with the focus being on recruiting the likes of Ajax’s Antony and PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo.
