Diego Simeone has expressed uncertainty over whether Antoine Griezmann will remain with Atlético Madrid for the remainder of the season as the forward is in discussions about a potential transfer to Orlando City.
According to ESPN, Griezmann, who has a contract with Atlético until 2027, is in negotiations with the MLS club. Both parties are reportedly eager to finalize the deal soon, with an agreement appearing to be close.
A World Cup champion and Atlético’s all-time leading scorer, Griezmann has been an essential player this season, participating in 22 LaLiga matches as the team competes for trophies, including an upcoming Copa del Rey semifinal clash against Barcelona this Tuesday.
Simeone mentioned earlier this week that Griezmann deserves the freedom to make his own choices given his contributions to the club. “I was quite clear the other day when I was asked about it,” stated Simeone at a press conference ahead of Atlético’s LaLiga fixture against Oviedo. “We’re uncertain about what will happen. I won’t reiterate how crucial Antoine is to our team; that’s well understood.”
In related news, Atlético was drawn against Tottenham in the Champions League round of 16, with the first leg scheduled for March 10 or 11 at the Metropolitano Stadium, followed by the return leg in London on March 17 or 18.
Mateu Alemany, Atlético’s director of football, added following the Champions League draw, “Antoine has this season and two more years left on his contract, and he is completely focused on what lies ahead. He’s performing exceptionally well and pivotal in our upcoming matches, including Tuesday’s game and the Champions League. Everything else is mere speculation.”
Sources indicate that Griezmann could leave even sooner, potentially playing his farewell match against former club Real Sociedad in LaLiga on March 7.
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If he transfers, this would leave the former France international with only three remaining matches for Atlético: against Oviedo on Saturday, Barcelona next Tuesday, and then Real Sociedad.
The MLS transfer window will close on March 26 and will reopen on July 13.
Negotiations for the transfer’s final details are currently underway, as reported by sources to ESPN.
While Simeone preferred that Griezmann remain through the LaLiga season before making a move this summer, the player reportedly has a verbal agreement with Atlético that allows him to depart on his own terms.