Manchester United are reportedly scheming a shock move for Antoine Griezmann of Barcelona. The Red Devils have let Barcelona know of their ‘intention’ to make a proposal for Griezmann.
The Spanish giants are in a financial clutter and were unable to renew Lionel Messi’s contract despite the Argentine’s desire to stay. Barca are still seeking to trim their wage bill during the current transfer window.
The list of Barca players who are not available for transfer this summer is a small one. But one such player who has been repeatedly linked with an exit is Griezmann. The 30-year-old had been amidst speculation linking him with a return to Atletico Madrid in a swap deal involving Saul Niguez.
Griezmann joining United to benefit Blaugrana?
With Barcelona’s financial fiasco now out before the world, that move no longer appears viable. A startling report from Spanish outlet TodoFichajes reveals Manchester United are interested.
The outlet claim that Griezmann ‘will be next to leave’ and that Manchester United sense a ‘clear opportunity’. Adding to it, they state that the situation points toward Manchester United ‘presenting a proposal shortly’.
Removing Griezmann from the books would greatly benefit the Spanish side financially. Also, the English giants are part of the list of the few clubs who can afford the Frenchman’s salary in full.
However, signing Griezmann would not necessarily align with the profile of player arriving at Old Trafford in recent windows. The result of that deal also has implications for Paul Pogba. He would be unlikely to switch to PSG if a transfer for Messi is completed.
Whether the claims are true or not, only time will tell.
Antoine Griezmann arrived at Camp Nou from Atletico Madrid for £108,000,000 in 2019. He has recorded a respectable 35 goals and 17 assists from 99 games for Barcelona.
The World Cup winner has also drawn interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
