Manchester United chiefs are exploring a loan deal for Atletico Madrid striker Alvaro Morata.

ESPN says United manager Erik ten Hag remains hopeful a Cristiano Ronaldo replacement can be found in January.

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.