Real Madrid forward leading Man United shortlist

Manchester United have turned their attention towards Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata as they look to find a successor to Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Spain international was largely confined to the substitutes' bench last term, with Karim Benzema getting the preference for the centre-forward position.

Morata, formerly a target of Chelsea, has been in negotiations with cash-rich AC Milan in recent weeks, but United are looking to beat their Italian counterparts as they seek to strengthen their forward department, The Express claims.

Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann was initially deemed the prime target for the Red Devils, but the Spanish club have failed to have their transfer ban overturned ahead of the summer.

As a result, Griezmann is committed to the cause of the La Liga outfit and will stay put in Madrid for at least another season.

Morata bagged an impressive tally of 20 goals for the European champions last term despite being restricted to just 19 starts across all competitions.