Griezmann to MLS? Orlando City Linked with Atlético Madrid Star
Griezmann in Advanced Talks with Orlando City for MLS Move
– Antoine Griezmann, the Atlético Madrid and France forward, is reportedly in advanced discussions to join Orlando City in Major League Soccer. The potential move, which would see the 34-year-old star ply his trade in the United States, has been gaining momentum in recent days, with club officials making multiple trips to Spain to negotiate a deal.
According to sources briefed on the negotiations, Orlando City is offering Griezmann a three-year contract. The club’s sporting director and general manager, Ricardo Moreira, has reportedly traveled to Spain on several occasions to directly engage with the player and his representatives, working to finalize the agreement before the MLS primary transfer window closes on .
The interest from Orlando City comes as Griezmann has long expressed a fascination with American culture and a desire to play in MLS. He has been a frequent visitor to the United States, often attending sporting events and publicly stated his ambition to play in the league. “Everyone knows that MLS is my dream and my goal,” Griezmann said in an interview last year.
While Inter Miami was also reportedly interested in acquiring Griezmann, they were unable to pursue the deal due to already having three designated players on their roster. Orlando City, however, has an open designated player spot, making them the frontrunners to secure his signature.
Griezmann’s potential arrival would add significant star power to Orlando City, a club that previously featured Ballon d’Or winner Kaká and former Portugal winger Nani. The team is hoping to convince Griezmann to sign during the primary transfer window, a move that would represent a major coup for the club, and MLS.
Despite being at 34, Griezmann remains an important player for Atlético Madrid, currently sitting in fourth place in La Liga. He recently contributed to a 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. However, Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone recently addressed the transfer rumors, offering a reflective response that suggested a move may be inevitable.
The Athletic reported that Orlando City holds Griezmann’s MLS discovery rights, giving them first claim at signing the player. Sources indicated that at least four MLS clubs have expressed interest, but Orlando’s discovery rights position them favorably in the negotiations.
Griezmann has six goals in La Liga this season and remains a key figure for both his club and the French national team, having scored four goals and added two assists in seven matches for France during their 2018 World Cup victory. His resume includes numerous accolades for both club and country, making him one of the most decorated players of his generation.
The possibility of Griezmann joining Orlando City in the middle of the European season is considered a significant development, potentially raising the profile of MLS and attracting further international talent to the league.