Idea to sell attacker ‘took shape’ after Chelsea ‘became interested’ – Player will ‘not continue’ at club

On July 12th, Sport explained Chelsea are ‘most active’ side to sign Antoine Griezmann.

It was also stated the Blues view the deal ‘very favourably’ because Barcelona are looking to allow the 30-year-old to leave on a loan deal.

For the past few days or so, multiple reports in Spain have discussed Atlético Madrid’s interest in the forward and they are ready to allow Saúl Ñíguez to move in the opposite direction.

AS now state the France international will ‘not continue’ at the Camp Nou and everything ‘points to Atlético’. As part of the deal, the midfielder will join the Catalan club.

Diego Simeone is in favour of this swap deal and even though the operation will be delayed due to the complications, all parties remain optimistic of reaching a conclusion.

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Barca’s decision to let Griezmann leave is not because of sporting reasons, but due to their difficult economic conditions. His exit will help them lower their wage bill.

Thomas Tuchel’s side wanting to sign the former Real Sociedad star gets a mention and the newspaper states the idea to sell the attacker ‘took shape’ after Chelsea ‘became interested’ in him.

Although Griezmann had the option of moving to England, he has prioritised the possibility of returning to Atlético, where Simeone ‘would receive him with open arms’.

With Griezmann favouring the La Liga winners over Chelsea, the Champions League winners must look elsewhere to strengthen their attacking division for the new season.