With the transfer window fast approaching, the rumors just don’t quit coming.
Atletico manager Diego Simeone’s recent comments have put both Manchester United and Barcelona on higher alert, after he suggested that Antoine Griezmann had his blessing to leave for a new club.
Speaking to the media, Simeone said this one the forwards future:
"“Of course Griezmann will be able to leave at some point, the same way (Diego) Costa and Arda Turan were allowed to leave.”"
The Reds have been heavily linked to Griezmann for well over a year, and a deal nearly happened last summer. But with Atletico Madrid facing a season-long transfer ban, the French forward opted for at least one more season in the Spanish Capital.
Barcelona have recently entered the Antoine Greizmann sweepstakes. In the wake of Neymar’s departure the Blagrauna have the cash to buy just about anyone on the planet.
Simeone’s vague comments on a ‘certain club’ put both clubs on high alert.
"“If a player comes to me and says: ‘coach, I have a once in a lifetime chance to play for a certain team,’ I want to leave.”"
https://twitter.com/brfootball/status/941638668707680256
Who, exactly, could that ‘certain team’ be?
Both Barca and Untied fans alike insisted that had Griezmann spoke to Simeone about a move, that certain team was theirs, respectively.
United have looked like the clear favorites to land the 26-year old for some time. Griezmann even admitted to being open to a future move to Old Trafford in his autobiography.
His release clause is €100m. That once astronomical figure now makes him look like a bargain. But that release clause has also brought other suitors — this time, Barcelona.
Rarely are Barcelona and Manchester United linked to the same player. However, a move for Griezmann makes sense for both clubs.
His versatility in attack would mean he would slot into both starting XI’s. But the allure of playing at Barcelona alongside the GOAT (Messi) is real. Normally, Manchester United could out-offer any club in terms of money. But after the sale of Neymar, Barcelona have the cash to match if not go over anything the Reds throw his way.
Next: Jose Mourinho: Manchester United boss willing to sign players in January
A move for Greizmann for either club is unlikely to happen in January. But next summer, we could see a real bidding war for the star Frenchman.