Griezmann of Atlético Madrid delays intentions for MLS transfer – sources
Atlético Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann has decided to postpone a possible transfer to MLS club Orlando City this season following Atlético’s progression to the Copa del Rey final on April 18, sources informed ESPN.
Last week, ESPN reported that the French striker was engaged in discussions with the MLS team regarding a transfer, even though he is under contract with Atlético until 2027.
According to sources, Orlando extended an offer contingent upon Griezmann relocating to the United States prior to the MLS transfer window deadline of March 26.
One source indicated to ESPN that the proposal for the 34-year-old was only applicable for this transfer window, as the club recognized that alternative options might arise in the upcoming window. The MLS summer window is set to open on July 13.
Griezmann holds the record as Atlético’s all-time leading scorer with 210 goals, yet he has not secured a major title with Diego Simeone’s squad.
Sources revealed to ESPN that Diego Simeone and the front-office staff were eager for Griezmann to remain for the season to provide him with the best possible farewell, including a chance at the Copa del Rey trophy.
In last week’s Champions League round-of-16 draw, Atlético was matched against Tottenham, with the first leg scheduled to take place in March at the Metropolitano, and the return leg in London on March 18.
“Antoine has this season and two more years remaining on his contract with us, and he is fully focused on what lies ahead,” said director of football Mateu Alemany last week following the Champions League draw.
In comments made last week, Simeone stated that Griezmann was “in a position where he deserves to decide what he wants to do” due to his contributions to the club.
“I was quite clear the other day when I was asked about it,” Simeone remarked. “I’m not going to continue discussing it … We are uncertain about what will happen. I won’t reiterate how significant Antoine is to us; we are aware of that.”
Atleti advanced to the Copa del Rey final despite suffering a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona in their semifinal second-leg match at Camp Nou on Tuesday and will now compete against either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club.
ESPN’s Julien Laurens contributed to this news story.
