Real Madrid have managed to emerge as a surprise destination for Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck, who has been heavily linked with a move away from the club in the last few weeks. Despite starting in most of the matches last season, Welbeck is understood to be unhappy at United. He has largely been used widely left, which he fears is not his natural position. The competition for places at Manchester United is intense especially in the striker department due to the presence of Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney.

The arrival of Dutch boss Louis van Gaal is unlikely to improve situations, as Welbeck is likely to be the third choice striker behind Rooney and van Persie. Hence, it has been suggested that the 23-year-old is looking for a move with Everton becoming one of the favourites towards the end of last season. Now, Madrid have entered into the picture and it is a surprise. The Spanish club recently sold young striker Alvaro Morata to Juventus for around £ 15 million. This has left a void in the attacking area of the pitch.

The Spanish club have reportedly identified Welbeck as a replacement for Morata. Madrid do not have much options up front if they lose Karim Benzema to injury. Last season, the striker scored only nine goals in 25 league matches. This was a substantial improvement to the previous campaign when he managed just one Premier league goal in 21 appearances, although it was largely because he was played out wide. Despite being taken with the England national team for the World Cup 2014, the 23-year-old did not make much of an impact as England crashed out at the group stages.

United have not been linked with any forwards so far, while they are likely to lose Javier Hernandez.