Atletico Madrid go after Barcelona in public regarding Griezmann
It is no secret that Barcelona has chased Griezmann over the past few months. But Atletico Madrid is frustrated by the advances made by their rivals. The club’s hierarchy has finally voiced their opinion on this issue.
Antoine Griezmann has been one of the most sought out properties in Spain. The French International has been phenomenal in front of goal for Atleti. In his 206 appearances, the 27-year old scored 110 goals in all competitions.
Over the past summers, Griezmann has been linked with a move away from Madrid. Manchester United came close to signing the striker. But Atleti were handed a transfer ban, forcing him to stay with the club for another season.
Barcelona seems to be really interested in the player this summer. Reports suggest that Barcelona has contacted Griezmann on multiple occasions through this season. The Spanish giants are eyeing a £88 million swoop for the striker this summer.
But Atletico Madrid isn’t happy with Barcelona. In an official statement, CEO Gil Marin expressed the Red’s stance on Griezmann. He mentioned that there haven’t been any negotiations between the clubs. Marin added that he personally met the Barcelona hierarchy and informed that the striker will not be sold.
"“Atletico de Madrid’s stance is very clear and has been made public on numerous occasions. Not once have we negotiated for Griezmann nor do we have any intention to do so. A few months ago, I personally expressed to Barcelona’s president that our player isn’t for sale nor are we going to sell him.”"
Atletico blamed Barcelona for lack of respect to a player’s contract. Marin also accused of disrupting their star player’s future ahead of a crucial European final.
"“We’re fed up with Barcelona’s attitude. That a president, player and a board member speak the way they’ve done about the future of a player with an existing contract and just a few days before disputing a European final, is an absolute lack of respect towards Atlético Madrid and its fans.”"
Barcelona has been pretty public about their interest. But it is a very unprofessional method used by the Spanish. Not recently, Southampton made an official warning to Liverpool as they were looking to sign Virgil Van Dijk.
Next: Griezmann move looking more likely
Griezmann is likely to leave this summer with trophies drying up at Atleti. It will be interesting to see if the Frenchman ends up at the start of next season.