Orlando City are said to be in negotiations to sign Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid, according to The Athletic.
The former France captain has long expressed interest in Major League Soccer, and the Florida-based side are keen to finalize a move before the primary transfer window closes on March 26. Griezmann has scored six goals in La Liga so far this season.
Working on the deal
Orlando City have reportedly been holding talks for several months, with sporting director Ricardo Pereira making several trips to Spain to try to finalize an agreement for one of France’s most accomplished players. At 34, Griezmann may no longer be at his physical peak, but he remains a key figure in Diego Simeone’s squad, which is close to reaching the Copa del Rey final.
A long-term interest in MLS
Griezmann has never hidden his admiration for American culture or his ambition to play in MLS. He is frequently seen attending sporting events in the United States and has previously spoken openly about his future plans:
"Everyone knows that MLS is my dream and my objective," he told AS in an interview late last year.
Inter Miami were also believed to be interested in signing Griezmann, but were unable to progress with talks because they already have three designated players registered in their squad.
One of the most decorated players of all time
Griezmann boasts an outstanding record at both club and international level. He scored four goals and provided two assists in seven appearances for France during their 2018 World Cup triumph. He finished third in the Ballon d’Or rankings in both 2016 and 2018 and has been selected in La Liga’s Team of the Season on four occasions. He is Atletico Madrid’s all-time leading goalscorer and has earned 137 caps for the French national team.
A difficult deal to complete
However, completing a transfer for Griezmann will be far from straightforward for the Lions.
The French star is contracted until the end of the 2026-27 season, while Atletico Madrid are closing in on a Copa del Rey final appearance. They can also secure qualification for the Champions League last 16 with a victory over Club Brugge tomorrow. Sources told The Athletic that Atletico do not plan to allow him to leave until the European summer transfer window opens on June 15. Because of differences between transfer windows, Orlando City would not be able to register him until July 13.
