Manchester City are said to be preparing a move for Juventus striker Alvaro Morata, according to the Daily Star.
Incoming City boss Pep Guardiola is believed to have been impressed by the Spaniard when he gave Bayern Munich a tough time in the Champions League in the last 16 tie with Juventus.
City’s interest in the 23-year old is so strong that they would reportedly pass up on the opportunity to sign Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba, who has been heavily linked with Real Madrid.
In a rather complex deal, Real have a £20m agreement to buy back Morata this summer.
But Los Blancos are keen on Pogba, who they believe can be the next big marketable footballer, following the purchases of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez.
That could open up the doors for City to pounce for Morata, who scored the winning goal against City at the Etihad in the club’s opening game in the Champions League.
The Spaniard would be a replacement for Wilfried Bony, who is surplus to requirements.
