Man Utd ‘identify Alvaro Morata as Cristiano Ronaldo transfer replacement and could launch January bid for Atletico ace’

MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly identified Alvaro Morata as a short-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Red Devils are on the lookout for a new attacker after missing out on Cody Gakpo.

Manchester United could make a loan swoop for Alvaro MorataGetty

Boss Erik ten Hag was left frustrated as bitter rivals Liverpool swooped in to steal the Dutchman away from Old Trafford.

But he remains hopeful a Ronaldo replacement can be found in January, according to ESPN.

However, summer spending means United’s budget in January is restricted.

As a result the club are eyeing short-term loan deals until the end of the campaign.

And former Chelsea ace Morata, 30, is one potential option.

Morata’s Atletico Madrid team-mate Joao Felix is also available.

However, the Spaniards are said to be demanding a hefty loan fee and all of his wages to be paid, which would cost United £19million in total.

That could see United swoop for Morata, who has scored five goals in 14 La Liga games this season.

He also netted three goals in four games for Spain at the World Cup.

United boss Ten Hag said after the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Tuesday that the Red Devils remain on the lookout for a striker.

He revealed: “I think we are always in the market but it has to match the sporting criteria and also the financial criteria.”