2. Antonie Griezmann, Atletico Madrid
Transfer policy or not, Gunners legend Robert Pires came out a few weeks ago and said Griezmann would be “perfect” signing for Arsenal, labeling him the best player not named Ronaldo or Messi.
The 26-year-old Frenchman has come into his own in recent years, earning the Euro 2016 Player of the Tournament award along with a 3rd place in last year’s Ballon d’Or race.
For Atletico Madrid, shipping off their young star could yield a huge profit for the Spanish side, who signed Griezmann from Real Sociedad in 2014 for £24 million.
Kicking the rumors into high gear, club President Enrique Cerezo just came out and said they’ll keep their French prodigy.
Meanwhile, Griezmann responded cryptically with a non-committal Tweet.
Toutes les rumeurs sont infondées, je suis toujours Colchonero. Mon orientation sera etablie apres discussion avec mon Conseiller Sportif
— Antoine Griezmann (@AntoGriezmann) May 26, 2017
“All the rumours are unfounded,” he wrote May 26. “I’m still Colchonero. My direction will be established after discussion with my sporting advisor.”
Despite the current tug-a-war for Griezmann’s services, Pires wants Arsenal to go all out in their attempt to sign him.
“I think he’ll break the £100 million mark and I know Manchester United are keen to buy him,” Pires said about Griezmann, who’s gotten “concrete” interest from Old Trafford. “But for me, if I had the chance I would spend every penny I have on Griezmann.”