Manchester United are favourites to sign Antoine Griezmann as Atletico Madrid accept that he is set to leave, according to Guillem Balague.
The Sky Sports Spanish expert told the broadcaster’s website that United tabled a “huge offer” for the superstar forward in the summer window and he held talks with their manager Jose Mourinho.
But Griezmann will “now consider” a move to Old Trafford, with the Premier League giants and Barcelona favourites to sign him.
Balague reports that the stiker’s release clause at Atletico will be reduced from £178million to £88.7million on 1 July next year as the possibility grows that his three-year spell at Atletico is drawing to a close.
Good move for United?
If United were getting the superstar striker who has lit up Spanish football and the Champions League in recent years, as well as Euro 2016, then yes. If they were getting the disinterested forward who has scored just three times and been subbed on five occasions by a furious Diego Simeone in 2017-18, maybe not. The France international has pedigree, an excellent scoring record and can lead the line or play off the main spearhead. He could dovetail brilliantly with fellow left-footer Romelu Lukaku.
This Is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
It appears inevitable that Griezmann will quit Atletico next summer, when his buyout clause is cut by half and a number of elite clubs will be queuing up to activate it. The Frenchman has made no secret of his intention to move on, with his public comments infuriating his current employers as well as Atletico fans. Given United’s resources, the signing of Griezmann is a genuine possibility.
This Is Futbol rating 7/10