Barcelona in talks to sign former Real Madrid striker Morata

Barcelona are in advanced talks with Spanish striker Álvaro Morata. AS understands that Morata is Xavi Hernández’s number one target to become the central figure in attack for Barça this season. The Atlético Madrid player, currently on loan at Juventus, has spoken to Xavi and has revelaed that he is not happy at the Italian club. Talks are at an advanced stage with the player and his agent, Juanma Lopez.

Xavi keen on more than loan deal

Xavi has also promised the former Real Madrid forward that he wants to keep him for more than a six-month loan. The Barcelona boss believes that the 29-year-old is one of the best strikers in the world, and values his versatility, work ethic and experience.

The player's entourage has told AS about Barcelona's interest, meaning he could leave Turin and return to Spain this winter. Massimiliano Allegri's Juventus are targeting Marseille player Krystian Milik in the January transfer window as well as Gianluca Scamacca from Serie A side Sassuolo.

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In order to comply with the financial fair play agreement with Barcelona, Morata would have to agree to take a large reduction from his current €10 million per year salary.Once an agreement has been reached between the clubs, he would join the Camp Nou side immediately. If Atlético Madrid want to keep Antoine Griezmann, they will have to pay around €40 million to Barcelona. Atlético were also going to receive €40 million from Juventus at the end of the season if they wanted to keep Morata.

Familiar faces at Barcelona

Part of the appeal for Morata is that he knows many players in the Blaugrana squad, including captain Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Ansu Fati and Jordi Alba. Morata has made 471 career appearances, scoring 176 goals and registering 61 assists in total. At Real Madrid, he made 95 appearances and scored 31 goals. At Juventus, he has played 160 times, with a return of 54 goals. His spell at Chelsea saw him make 72 appearances and net 24 goals. And with his current club Atlético Madrid, Morata has played 61 matches and scored 22 goals.

Manchester United's Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani remains an option for Barcelona's forward line should Morata's deal fall through.