Inter Milan Set to Hijack Arsenal Deal for Alvaro Morata

Inter Milan are reportedly poised to win the race for Real Madrid's rising star Alvaro Morata, even though he has been earmarked as one of Arsenal's main summer acquisitions.

The 21-year-old striker was close to a loan move to the Emirates Stadium in the last transfer window but Real boss Carlo Ancelotti blocked his exit, claiming the talented youngster would have more chances in the second part of the campaign.

Although Morata has expressed his frustration over his lack of appearances at Real Madrid a number of times, he recently hinted he is likely to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu for another season.

"I am very happy here. I have been many years here getting ready in the academy and I am happy here so if they want me, I'll be here," Morata was quoted as saying by Marca.

"It is obvious that Ancelotti trusts me, he gives me minutes and I try to respond with work and goals. Sometimes I score and some not but I always show the best attitude."

However, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Spanish Under-21 is a priority for the 'Nerazzurri', who are willing to pay £18m to secure his services – which would include a £21m buy-back clause.

The Italian newspaper also reported a week ago that talks between Inter president Erick Thohir and Real's Florentino Perez would start this week.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has earmarked a striker as Arsenal's top summer transfer priority, and Morata is reportedly top of his shopping list.

Recent reports in Spain claimed Morata has already agreed personal terms to make the move to north London this summer – but Arsenal are yet to agree terms with Real Madrid as they want to include a buy-back clause in the deal.

Meanwhile, Morata keeps taking every opportunity to prove his worth. So far, he has scored six goals in 18 league appearances for Real – a record which makes his lack of playing time all the more mystifying for many Madrid supporters.