Juventus director: Morata 'wants to stay' despite Real Madrid clause

If Alvaro Morata has his way, he won't be returning to Real Madrid next season. At least that's what Juventus' sporting director seems to believe.

Beppe Marotta says the striker, whose contract includes a €35-million buyback clause that Madrid is widely expected to trigger this summer, prefers not to return to the Spanish capital, and wants to remain in Turin for the foreseeable future.

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"The player improved and grew a great deal with us, while he feels bonded to our club colours," Marotta said Sunday. "He wants to stay with Juventus, but obviously Real Madrid have everything needed to change his mind."

Since joining the Bianconeri for €22 million in 2014, Morata has developed into an integral part of Massimiliano Allegri's squad. Though he's been used more as a substitute this season than he was in his first campaign, the burgeoning star has still found the net nine times (Serie A and Champions League) while chipping in with eight assists.

"Some situations, such as that of Morata, do not depend on us," Marotta added.

"We want to keep the lad and have to discuss it with Real Madrid. His destiny also depends on Real Madrid's, as they are currently active in La Liga and the Champions League."

The 23-year-old was crucial in Juventus' run to the Champions League final last season and has grown into a favourite of supporters, but with the shoddy injury history of Karim Benzema - and Cristiano Ronaldo not getting any younger - a move back to his homeland could provide Morata with the playing time he wasn't finding before he left the Bernabeu.