Manchester United step up the chase for Antoine Griezmann
As Barcelona stall on their long-awaited deal for Antoine Griezmann, Manchester United have joined the race for the French star to try their luck.
No matter how much you cringe at his off-the-field stunts, his celebrations, or even his desire to be a basketball player with all of these needless documentaries and TV specials regarding his future, there is no denying that Antoine Griezmann is a top footballer.
The Atletico Madrid star has hit 20 goals in all competitions for the 6th consecutive season, but has officially announced his departure from the Spanish club this summer. The favourites to sign him were Barcelona by a mile, but it seems that Manchester United are interested in hi-jacking the deal.
Barcelona were supposed to sign Griezmann last summer, but a last minute twist to the tale via his absurd “La Decision” TV announcement revealed his faithfulness to Atletico’s cause. But now that he is confirmed to be leaving, many assumed that the contacts Barcelona made with the player, club, and agents last summer would put them in the best position to sign him.
This may be the case, but it seems that the Catalan club is having second thoughts over the finances of the deal, as well as Griezmann’s suitability to the squad and style.
His release clause is reportedly £107 million.
Remember, whilst Griezmann *is* one of the best in the world, United struggled with width last season. He would be bought with 50% of United's budget which will make it increasingly difficult to sign a RW, RB and CB of quality.
— UtdArena (@UtdArena) May 24, 2019
It isn't a quality issue. It's a logistical one.
This has Manchester United on high alert, as they search for a marquee attacking player to lead the troops next season. The Red Devils’ lack of Champions League football next season might hinder the deal, but their stature within the game still attracts the very best.
The rumour is that Manchester United seek to slot Antoine Griezmann in on their vacant right-wing, which was supposed to belong to Alexis Sanchez, before they realized that his qualities had vanished. This role would be extremely new for Griezmann, as he has played only as a secondary striker for club and country for the past few years, and was a left-winger at Sociedad a long time ago.
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While most expected Manchester United’s marquee forward signing to be Jadon Sancho this summer, it seems that Antoine Griezmann could very well take up that position instead. If Barcelona continue stalling on the deal, expect Manchester United to swoop in and sign him.