Orlando City SC is in negotiations to acquire Atlético Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann, according to a source who spoke with ESPN.
Griezmann is presently contracted with Atlético until 2027; however, this has not hindered discussions between Griezmann’s representatives and the MLS club regarding a possible transfer. Despite these conversations, no agreement has been reached between Griezmann and Orlando City.
Griezmann has consistently shown interest in playing in the North American league, referring to MLS as a future goal during interviews with ESPN. In March, there were speculations about a potential transfer to LAFC before he re-signed with Atlético.
“I’ve always stated it, my aim is to end up [in MLS],” Griezmann mentioned to ESPN in 2023. “It’s my goal, to be there and conclude my career there, to enjoy the sport there. I’m a huge fan.”
The timeline for the transfer remains uncertain, as Griezmann is anticipated to participate with France in the World Cup this summer in North America.
The midfielder is in his second tenure with Atlético Madrid, where he has netted 69 goals in 187 appearances across all competitions since his return in 2021. Griezmann began his career in Spain with Real Sociedad in 2009, later joining Atlético for the first time and subsequently moving to Barcelona.
After three seasons at Barcelona, Griezmann rejoined Atleti in 2021 on loan before finalizing a permanent transfer to the club.
At the club level, the midfielder has been involved in multiple trophy-winning seasons with both Atlético Madrid and Barcelona. He secured the 2014 Supercopa de España, the 2017-18 Europa League title, and the 2018 Super Cup with Atlético, while winning the 2021 Copa del Rey with Barcelona.
On the international stage, Griezmann was part of the 2018 French national team that claimed the FIFA World Cup and the 2020-21 Nations League. His performances earned him third place in the Ballon d’Or rankings in both 2016 and 2018.
