Antoine Griezmann transfer: Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde admits contact has been made over move for Atletico Madrid star

The France international has already confirmed he is leaving Atletico this summer with Man City and PSG ruling themselves out of the race

Jack Rathborn
Monday 20 May 2019 07:55 EDT
Comments
Antoine Griezmann features in Huawei advert

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Ernesto Valverde has admitted contact has now been made over a move for Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann.

The France striker confirmed his intention to leave the club this summer, with a €120million release clause set to kick in from July 1.

And Barcelona have been left in the clear after Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain ruled themselves out of the race.

After concluding the La Liga season as champions with a 2-2 draw at Eibar, Valverde admitted talks over a deal are now underway.

“It is true we have already made contacts,” Valverde said.

“It is true that contacts are ongoing, but the season isn’t over yet.

“We have the Copa Del Rey final still to play. We have the chance of winning two titles and we must try to focus on this issue.

“Afterwards we will have time for everything else – we won’t say anything new when we are talking about players from other teams.

“We will see (what happens). He (Griezmann) is a great player. We’ve always said so.”

Antoine Griezmann could arrive at the Nou Camp this summer
Antoine Griezmann could arrive at the Nou Camp this summer (AFP/Getty Images)

Barcelona will hope to conclude a disappointing season on a high in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday against Valencia.

The shocking loss to Liverpool in the Champions League ultimately signals failure, but the consolation of another double is within reach at the Estadio Benito Villamarin in Seville.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in