Atlético Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann has decided to pause discussions regarding a potential move to MLS club Orlando City for this season, as Atlético has progressed to the Copa del Rey final scheduled for April 18, according to ESPN sources.
Last week, ESPN reported that the France international was in negotiations with the MLS side, even though his contract with Atlético runs until 2027.
Sources indicated that Orlando extended an offer based on the condition that Griezmann would relocate to the United States prior to the MLS transfer window closure on March 26.
One source informed ESPN that the offer made to the 34-year-old was only valid for the current transfer window, as the club anticipated that other options may arise in the next window. MLS’ summer transfer window will open on July 13.
Griezmann holds the record as Atlético’s all-time leading scorer, with 210 goals to his name, yet he has not won a major trophy during his time under Diego Simeone.
Sources revealed that both Simeone and the front office are eager for Griezmann to remain with the team this season, providing him with an opportunity for a proper farewell, including a chance at the Copa del Rey title.
In the recent Champions League round-of-16 draw, Atlético was set to face Tottenham, with the first match taking place in March at Metropolitano and the return match scheduled in London on March 18.
“Antoine has this season plus two more years on his contract with us, and he is entirely focused on what lies ahead,” said football director Mateu Alemany following the Champions League draw last week.
Speaking last week, Simeone remarked that Griezmann is “in a position where he deserves to choose his own future,” reflecting on his significant contributions to the club.
“I was clear the other day when asked about it,” Simeone commented. “I won’t continue discussing it… The future is uncertain. I won’t repeat how vital Antoine is to our team; that is well understood.”
Atlético reached the Copa del Rey final despite suffering a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona in their semifinal second-leg encounter at Camp Nou on Tuesday, and they will now compete against either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club.
ESPN’s Julien Laurens contributed to this report.