Atlanta United turn to Alvaro Morata as Romelu Lukaku closes in on Fenerbahce

Atlanta United are considering a move for Como striker Alvaro Morata after their initial target, Napoli forward Romelu Lukaku, moved closer to joining Turkish club Fenerbahce.

Sky reports that the Major League Soccer side have shifted their attention to the Spain international during the current summer transfer window, with the club looking to strengthen their attacking options before the new season begins.

Atlanta United had identified Belgium international Lukaku as their first-choice attacking target. However, the 33-year-old is understood to prefer remaining in Europe and is now close to completing a move to Fenerbahce.

That development has prompted Atlanta United to explore alternative options, with Morata emerging as a possible replacement for Lukaku in their recruitment plans.

Transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Atlanta United have already begun assessing the possibility of signing the former Spain captain. The club’s interest remains at the exploratory stage, but Morata has become the leading alternative as the American side continues its search for a striker.

Morata joined Como from AC Milan on loan, with the deal including an option for the Italian club to make the transfer permanent for a fee reported to be between €10m and €12m.

The forward endured a difficult campaign last season and did not score a goal in Serie A. Despite that record, Como could still be willing to sanction a permanent sale if an agreement can be reached over the terms of a transfer.

The bigger obstacle may be convincing Morata to leave European football. The striker is reportedly keen to continue his career in Europe, which could make a move to Major League Soccer difficult for Atlanta United to complete.

The United States club are seeking to reinforce their attack ahead of the start of the season, but they have encountered difficulties in attracting players from Europe’s major leagues. The pursuit of Morata therefore represents another attempt to secure an experienced forward after Lukaku’s likely move to Fenerbahce altered the club’s original plans.

Morata’s proposed move to Como followed his spell with AC Milan, while Lukaku’s next destination is expected to be confirmed in Turkey if negotiations conclude as anticipated. For now, Atlanta United must decide whether to intensify their interest in Morata or continue searching for another attacking option in the European market.