Orlando City SC is reportedly negotiating the acquisition of Atlético Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann, an ESPN insider revealed.
Presently, Griezmann holds a contract with Atlético through 2027. Nevertheless, this has not deterred his representatives from maintaining active talks with the MLS club concerning a prospective move. Notwithstanding these discussions, no agreement has been finalized between Griezmann and Orlando City.
Griezmann has consistently shown an eagerness to play in the North American circuit, identifying MLS as a future aim during his conversation with ESPN. Rumors surfaced in March associating him with a switch to LAFC prior to his contract renewal with Atlético.
“I’ve consistently stated that my aim is to conclude my career [in MLS],” Griezmann relayed to ESPN in 2023. “My aspiration is to be present there and finish my professional journey, enabling me to savor the sporting environment. I hold great admiration.”
The precise moment for such a transfer remains uncertain, as Griezmann is anticipated to feature prominently with France in the upcoming summer’s World Cup hosted in North America.
The central player is currently in his second tenure with Atlético Madrid, having amassed 69 goals in 187 matches spanning all tournaments following his return in 2021. His career commenced in 2009 in Spain with Real Sociedad, prior to his initial move to Atlético and subsequently to Barcelona.
Subsequent to three years in Barcelona, Griezmann rejoined Atleti in 2021 on a temporary basis, before finalizing a permanent move to the squad.
At the club level, this central figure has contributed to multiple championship-winning seasons with both Atlético Madrid and Barcelona. With Atlético, he secured the 2014 Supercopa de Espana, the 2017-18 Europa League championship, and the 2018 Super Cup, concurrently claiming the 2021 Copa del Rey with Barcelona.
On the international stage, Griezmann was a member of the 2018 French national squad that clinched the FIFA World Cup as well as the 2020-21 Nations League. His performances secured him third position in the 2016 and 2018 Ballon d’Or standings.