Negotiations for Griezmann's Transfer
Advanced talks are underway for Antoine Griezmann to leave Atlético Madrid for Orlando City FC in the United States. However, a disagreement over the transfer's timing is complicating the deal. Orlando City's General Manager and Sporting Director, Ricardo Moreira, is leading the effort and has flown to Spain multiple times to discuss terms. A move for a World Cup winner of his stature would be a major coup for Major League Soccer.
Orlando City is pushing to finalize the signing by March 26th, which is when the MLS primary transfer window closes. Griezmann, however, is only willing to make the switch during the summer. His current contract with Atlético Madrid runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, and formal negotiations between the two clubs have not yet begun.
Background on Griezmann and Orlando City
Who is Antoine Griezmann? The French forward is a key leader for Atlético Madrid. A native of Mâcon, France, he was developed at Real Sociedad's academy, making his first-team debut in the 2009/10 season. He joined Atlético in 2014, playing for them apart from a two-season spell at Barcelona. His impressive trophy cabinet includes:
- Copa del Rey
- Spanish Super Cup
- Europa League
- UEFA Super Cup
Furthermore, he was a champion with the French national team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and has twice finished third in Ballon d'Or voting.
What about Orlando City? The club was founded in Florida in 2010 and has competed in the MLS Eastern Conference since 2015. Nicknamed 'The Lions,' their highest achievement is reaching the playoff semifinals in the 2024 season, and they also won the U.S. Open Cup in 2022. The most notable players in the club's history are the Brazilian Kaká and the Portuguese Nani.
Discussions regarding Antoine Griezmann's potential move to Orlando City are ongoing. The outcome hinges on whether the parties can find a compromise on the timing. Should the deal succeed, Griezmann would represent a significant signing for an Orlando City side aiming to climb the MLS standings, while offering the player a high-profile new chapter in a growing soccer market.