According to the latest reports from the Evening Standard, Barcelona are confident that they will pull off a coup for Atletico Madrid’s star forward Antoine Griezmann. The Catalan giants have had a long-standing interest in the forward and after the World Cup winner recently mentioned that he is going to leave Atletico in the summer, potential clubs are expected to line up for his signature.
Competition from French heavyweights
French heavyweights Paris Saint Germain are also said to be interested as they are looking for a replacement for the ageing Edinson Cavani. Meanwhile, Barcelona wants him because they feel the Frenchman can play in various roles in the attacking third and can also act as a successor to Luis Suarez.
How much will Barcelona have to shell out for Griezmann?
Griezmann is going to be available for €120m when his release clause drops from €200m on July 1. The 28-year-old once again managed to breach the 20 goals mark for the season as he scored 21 and assisted a further 10 in all competitions. The French attacker has been a consistent performer for Diego Simeone over the years and losing him will be a big issue for the Argentine manager.
However, €120m for a 28-year-old doesn’t look like too bad a deal. Barcelona would be glad to have someone like that in their ranks as they need to find a replacement for Luis Suarez who is on a decline.
Ability wise Griezmann can play for Barcelona, but it often boils down to whether the player would be able to adapt to the Blaugrana system. We have seen quite a few top quality players struggle to get a foothold into the team because they haven’t been able to adapt their style of play.
Is he worth signing for €120m and what will he bring at Camp Nou?
Griezmann is a versatile attacker who can lead the line but can also play in the wide regions as well. His goal scoring record for a conservative side like Atletico Madrid has been phenomenal over the years, and he can churn up goals for fun at Barcelona if he manages to settle in at the club. Griezmann is supremely fit and haven’t had too much trouble with injuries. So even at the age of 28; we would say that he is worth the €120m as he has some good years left in him.
The reigning La Liga champions were heavily linked with the forward even last year, and it seemed as the move would go through, but Griezmann stayed put for a year. He is known for his link-up play and work rate, and he should settle in well at a club like Barcelona. The Catalan giants should go all out to sign him in the upcoming summer now that the Frenchman is willing to move.
