Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho admits defeat in hunt for Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata

Mourinho confirmed United’s interest in Morata on Friday

Manchester United were interested in bringing Alvaro Morata to Old Trafford (Getty)

Jose Mourinho has admitted that Manchester United are unlikely to sign Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata this summer, describing the club’s failure to complete the deal as a “shame”.

Mourinho confirmed United’s interest in Morata on Friday when he acknowledged that negotiations with Madrid had broken down.

United eventually signed a striker, taking Romelu Lukaku from Everton for £75m, and Mourinho does not believe that Morata will join the Belgian at Old Trafford.

When asked about the possibility after United's 5-2 win over LA Galaxy on Saturday, Mourinho said: “I think this is a question for [Real Madrid president] Florentino Perez and [director general] Jose Angel Sanchez. I can only repeat what I said yesterday.

“The selling club is the one who puts the price on the player, the buying club doesn't. If a club want to buy our players, we set the price. Morata

“Morata is a Real Madrid player. Madrid made a decision and we didn't reach an agreement with them. It is simple. It is a shame.

“He is a player who made it to the first team with me. We have a special liking for him, he is someone special. I enjoyed seeing his growth at Juventus and Madrid.

“It is like that. I don't think he can end with us,” Mourinho added.

Lukaku made his debut in United's win at the Stub Hub Center, featuring as a second-half substitute. United's only other summer signing, Victor Lindelof, also appeared for the first time.