Morata in talks over Leganes loan as Madrid priority shapes next move

Alvaro Morata is expected to leave Como and return to Spain with a surprise move to Leganes, according to reports in Spain, after failing to establish himself as a regular under manager Cesc Fabregas.

The former Real Madrid and Atletico de Madrid striker, who is 33, is reportedly set to join the Spanish second-tier club on loan, although negotiations are still taking place.

Morata’s immediate future at Como has become increasingly uncertain, with the imminent arrival of Moise Kean expected to make it even harder for him to secure a place in the starting line-up. Kean’s move to the Italian club is described as effectively certain, closing off another route to regular first-team football for Morata.

The striker has previously been linked with a number of clubs, but reports now suggest that Leganes has emerged as his preferred destination.

According to the El Larguero radio programme on COPE, as reported by Mundo Deportivo, Morata has made his decision and is keen to remain based in the Spanish capital. That preference is understood to have played a major role in his choice of Leganes.

The same report says the former Spain international will move from Como to Leganes on a temporary basis. The proposed deal has been confirmed by people close to Morata, although it has yet to be completed.

“Morata’s entourage confirmed the deal, which is currently being negotiated. It is not an easy operation, given that Leganes are a second-tier team, but if everything goes well, Morata will be Leganes’ number nine this season. He is eager to live in Madrid,” Mundo Deportivo reported.

A move to Leganes would allow Morata to continue living in Madrid while seeking the regular playing time that has proved difficult to find at Como. It would also represent a return to Spanish football after his latest spell in Italy.

Morata has represented both Real Madrid and Atletico de Madrid during his career, while his future has now become the subject of renewed speculation following his struggles to secure a starting role at Como.

The possible transfer remains dependent on the two clubs reaching an agreement. Leganes’ status as a second-division side is considered a complicating factor in the negotiations, but the player’s desire to stay in Madrid could help move the deal forward.

For now, the proposed loan remains under discussion, with Leganes positioning themselves to make Morata their main centre-forward for the season if an agreement can be reached.