Alvaro Morata to join Barcelona next month?

Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata could reportedly be heading for a winter exit with Barcelona leading the race to secure his signature.

The Spain international has been in-and-out of the starting lineup for the Blues this term and he was recently an unused substitute during the club's 2-0 Premier League win versus Manchester City at the Bridge.

According to The Mirror, the Blaugrana are looking into a temporary deal for the Spaniard at the turn of the year with the obligation to buy during the summer of 2019.

The Catalan giants have not experienced any concerns in terms of their scoring this term but they are looking into a long-term replacement for Luis Suarez, who has struggled with regular knee problems over the past year.

Meanwhile, Morata is said to favour a return to the Spanish La Liga where he made a name for himself with Real Madrid but his switch to the Camp Nou may bring out a hostile reception from the Los Blancos faithful.