Alvaro Morata set for unexpected Leganes switch in loan move from Como

Alvaro Morata is set to join second-tier Leganes on loan from Como for one season in one of the most surprising moves of the transfer window.

The Spanish striker arrived at the club’s headquarters on the morning of the announcement and signed a one-year contract, according to Leganes. The agreement, which will bring Morata to the Spanish club from Como, is expected to be formally confirmed with further details within hours.

Leganes are targeting a strong return to Spain’s top division and have completed the deal after a period of discreet negotiations. The club used its financial resources and ability to work within the league’s salary regulations to secure a forward with extensive experience at some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Morata has played for Real Madrid, Juventus, Chelsea, Atletico de Madrid, AC Milan, Galatasaray and Como during a distinguished career. His arrival represents a major statement of ambition from Leganes as they seek to challenge for promotion back to the top flight.

The 32-year-old moved from Galatasaray to Como last season but was keen to return to Spain and settle in Madrid. That desire was a decisive factor in the negotiations and helped Leganes complete a deal that ranks among the transfer market’s most unexpected developments.

Leganes will pay a substantial part of Morata’s salary under the agreement. The striker has also accepted a reduction in part of his financial entitlement, reflecting his determination to return to Madrid and begin a new chapter with the club.

The move was not completed simply by reaching an agreement with the player and Como. Leganes also had to ensure that the arrangement complied with the regulations of the Spanish league and its salary limit.

Club officials worked on those requirements before finalising the necessary arrangements for the transfer. Their efforts allowed Leganes to bring in a forward whose career has included spells with leading clubs in Spain, Italy, England and Turkey.

Morata’s decision to join a second-tier side is particularly notable given the level at which he has spent much of his career. His previous clubs include Real Madrid, where he began his senior career, as well as Juventus, Chelsea, Atletico de Madrid, AC Milan, Galatasaray and Como.

For Leganes, the signing is intended to strengthen their push to return to the Spanish top flight. For Morata, it offers the opportunity to play again in Spain while living in the Madrid area, a preference that played an important role in the agreement.

The club’s announcement confirmed the broad outline of the deal, with the remaining formal details expected to be made public shortly.