Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin remains hopeful Antoine Griezmann can continue at Wanda Metropolitano for a “long time”, amid speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona.
The France international has a release clause of €100m in his contract at the Spanish capital club. The La Liga winners have identified the forward as a summer transfer target and are keen on bringing him to Camp Nou to further bolster their attack.
According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, conversations have already taken place in signing Griezmann as Barcelona are looking to seal the deal “as soon as possible”. However, the Uruguayan international believes the 27-year-old has still not made a decision on his future and he hopes the former Real Sociedad star can give “much more joy” by continuing at Atletico.
“We do not know, we do not know. I don’t think he knows it. Let’s hope he stays here for a long time. He has a contract with Atletico Madrid and I hope he continues to grow here, giving us much more joy,” Godin told Uruguayan media Radio Rincón and the CELESTE CHAIN, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo.
Meanwhile, Godin also went on to provide an insight on why he feels the Barcelona target is more Uruguayan than French.
“He says he is Uruguayan. He was always surrounded by Uruguayan players. He made his Real Sociedad debut under Uruguayan coach Martin Lasarte. He likes it because of how we are, our customs, eating a barbecue, our music!”
Godin and Griezmann’s immediate priority will be on the second leg of the Europa League semi-final clash against Arsenal on Thursday. The first leg at the Emirates ended in a 1-1 draw, with the Frenchman scoring the equaliser for Atletico.
