Man United hold 'talks' with bargain Joshua Zirkzee transfer alternative with obvious advantage

Manchester United are facing another problematic transfer saga with Joshua Zirkzee. The Bologna star is a wanted man this summer but the race for his signature looks to be coming down to just two.

Alongside United, AC Milan have been following the Netherlands international's progress for some time. Zirkzee has a £34m release clause in his contract at Bologna but a reported £12m fee to his agent, Kia Joorabchian, has proved to be a stumbling block.

Various reports have suggested that Milan are seeking out alternatives, such as Jonathan David, but the indication from Italy is that Zirkzee prefers a move to San Siro.

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With no clear path on Zirkzee, United are in a similar situation they found themselves in with Jarrad Branthwaite. After failing with an opening bid for the Everton defender, alternatives have been forced to be considered. Further up the pitch attack, the exact same thing is happening.

A surprise name on that list is Atletico Madrid's Alvaro Morata. Turkish outlet Sabah (via Sport Witness) have claimed that United have held talks with the striker's representatives over a potential transfer in swift change in focus for the position.

Zirkzee and David, who has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford, are younger options to compete with Rasmus Hojlund. Morata is 31 and carries plenty of experience throughout his career.

A tight transfer budget means the strategy of being smart in their recruitment and Morata ticks that box. The Spain international reportedly has a €12m (£10.1m) release clause in his contract at the Metropolitano Stadium with AS Roma, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund and Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce also keen.

Morata has scored 216 goals at club level and finished last season with 21 for Atletico. He is also playing a crucial role in Spain's Euro 2024 campaign, netting in the 3-0 win over Croatia.

There are blatant doubts over Zirkzee and his potential ability to adapt to English football. Last season's 12 goals in all competitions is his best individual campaign and football has witnessed many players securing big-money moves after a good 12 months.

But Morata has 10 years experience of competing at the highest level with stints at Juventus, Chelsea and Atletico Madrid. At just £10.1m, United could do much worse than signing a player of his experience to help Hojlund next season.