Arsenal steps up interest in Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata

According to SportsMail, Arsenal will re-double their efforts to sign Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata on a season-long loan this week.

Theo Walcott's devastating knee injury, coupled with Nicklas Bendtner's long-term ankle problem, has left manager Arsene Wenger with no apparent choice but to sign a new centre forward this month.

Arsenal would rather complete a short-term deal for a new forward this month, unless one of their top targets are available, in a bid to avoid burdening their wage bill with a player who may not necessarily be a regular starter next season.

Wenger sees Morata as the perfect stop-gap between now and the end of the season, but Real have informed the Gunners that the talented striker is not available on a permanent or temporary basis.

But Arsenal remain in contact with Madrid chiefs and are hoping for a significant breakthrough.