Just in: Barcelona in talks to sign Atletico Madrid striker

With less than three hours left before the summer transfer window slams shut, there is a lot of drama brewing at Barcelona.

While the Catalans are close to completing the signings of Marcos Alonso and Hector Bellerin, another ‘surprise’ player is tipped to arrive at Spotify Camp Nou before the deadline passes.

Nabil Fekir of Real Betis was said to be this mystery player, but those rumours were debunked as early as they came to light. Now, Mundo Deportivo is claiming that Barcelona are in negotiations with Atletico Madrid to sign Alvaro Morata.

Morata had been high on Xavi’s transfer wishlist back during the January transfer window when the Spaniard was still on loan at Juventus. However, the Catalan giants ended up signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang instead.

Meanwhile, Morata finished the 2021/22 season at Juventus, who opted not to trigger the permanent buy option. Upon returning to Atletico, the 29-year-old had been linked with an exit, but manager Diego Simeone decided to give him another chance to come good.

The ex-Real Madrid striker began the new season with a brace in the opening game against Getafe, but has since failed to find the back of the net in the next two matches.

Nevertheless, Barcelona are now said to be in talks with Atletico over a late deadline day swoop for Morata. The move, should it get over the line, could have an impact on the situation of Antoine Griezmann, who is on loan at the Metropolitano from Barça.