Griezmann’s tricky case: what about Atlético Madrid’s option? And is a return to Barcelona possible?

Antoine Griezmann returned to Atlético Madrid before the season, but only on loan. He did not fully regain his form from his first loan spell at his former club, but Madrid are still interested in him and are currently discussing his future. What about his option?

The route between Madrid and Barcelona has been fatal for Griezmann in his career. In June 2019, he transferred from Atlético to Barcelona for a staggering 120 million euros, only he hasn’t quite caught on in Catalonia.

So after two years, he returned to the Colchoneros on a one-year loan deal with a €40 million option. But how things will go with Griezmann is still in the stars.

He didn’t do so well in La Liga, accumulating a poor record of 3+3 in 24 games. He certainly didn’t build on his first stint at Atlético, when he netted 22, 22, 16, 19 and 15 goals in seasons.

Even so, the Rojiblancos would like to keep the French striker. Not at this price, however. That’s why, according to the daily MARCA, sporting directors Gil Marin and Mateu Alemany met on Wednesday to discuss Griezmann’s future.

the 31-year-old is on loan at Wanda Metropolitano until the end of next season, but Atleti are already working out what to do next. The amount of 40 million euros seems inadequate, so they are trying to reduce it.

Also playing in Atlético’s favour is the fact that Barcelona are interested in Álvaro Morata, who has also been the subject of negotiations. The Spanish striker is currently playing for Juventus, but still belongs to Atlético Madrid. So, in theory, some sort of swap is also in play.

Barcelona’s delicate situation

The Colchoneros are helped by the fact that Barcelona are in a very delicate situation. Indeed, Griezmann was receiving a salary of 22 million euros in Catalonia, which would be counted against the salary cap again if he returns. And that is already in the red, so the Culés will have to cut back to bring in new reinforcements.

So Barcelona cannot afford Griezmann’s return and must do everything possible to sell him.

Moreover, both the player himself and coach Diego Simeone want him to continue in the east of Madrid. At the moment, Atlético are thus in a great negotiating position and can afford to pressure Barcelona to lower the price as much as possible. Indeed, the sale of Griezmann is crucial for them.

Source: MARCA