Alongside Paul Pogba, Antoine Griezmann is proving to be one of the major players of this transfer window.
His proposed move to Barcelona is causing all sorts of trouble in Spain, with the two clubs currently at war over the forward.
At present, the situation is this. Barcelona were waiting until July 1st for Griezmann’s release clause to drop to €120m. That’s now happened and they’re expected to pay it.
Atletico put out a very strong letter admonishing the whole saga, and saying Barca had asked to pay in instalments. They also heavily criticised their own player.
Subsequently Griezmann has refused to return to Atletico Madrid training.
The best solution for everyone is to get the deal done as soon as possible and Sport report today that Barcelona is actively working to make that happen.
According to the newspaper, they are exploring the best ways to pay Griezmann’s clause which, at €120m, is lower than it once was but still a big price for them to pay. As a result, they want to ensure they go about it the right way.
That’s what’s causing the hold-up but they’re keen to bring an end to things as they don’t want a situation that is ‘complex’ for their relationship with Atletico and the player himself.
As a result, Barcelona are now working so that they can meet the striker’s release clause between Thursday and Friday. They think the best way to go about it is to get the player to deliver his release clause to the La Liga office and bring a definitive conclusion to this ongoing saga.