Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann is set to stay at the Wanda Metropolitano beyond this summer. According to recent reports, the French centre-forward, who has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, is believed to have told his camp that he is keen on staying with the La Liga outfit for the time being.
Some sources are now claiming that the 27-year-old has decided to extend his time in Madrid as he was promised that Diego Simeone’s side will bring in some high-profile players during this summer transfer period. Recent talks between the Frenchman and the Spanish side have been productive and it is highly likely that Atletico will offer him a new and improved contract to retain his services for the long-run.
Only time will tell whether Simeone ends up splashing the cash in this window in order to mount a realistic title charge in the league next season. Griezmann had made 49 appearances for the Madrid-based team last season, scoring 29 goals while notching up with 15 assists in all competitions.
With the Frenchman set to stay with Atletico Madrid, let’s take a look at three alternatives for Barcelona to consider in this off-season.
Timo Werner
The 22-year-old German goal-scoring machine has been lighting up the Bundesliga with his finishing in front of goal for RB Leipzig last season. He has caught the eye with some dazzling displays which has seen him register 21 goals while creating 10 assists in 45 matches for the German club in all competitions. Werner has a lot of potential to be one of the best centre-forwards in European football and if given the opportunity to showcase his talents at a higher stage, he can fulfil his ambitions at the Nou Camp.
Gonzalo Higuain
The Argentine forward has been one of the best goal-scorers in European football over the past few years during his time with Napoli and Juventus. The 30-year-old had featured in 50 matches for the Turin side the last term, scoring 23 goals while providing 8 assists across all competitions. At 30, the South American ace still has a good few years left in him to play at a high level which makes him an ideal option for the Catalans to consider.
Christian Pulisic
The 19-year-old Borussia Dortmund ace can be considered as one of the brightest young prospects in European football and Barca would do well to bring him to the Nou Camp. The American youngster is very talented and has massive potential which is exactly what the Catalans are looking for, as they look towards building a bigger and brighter future at Catalunya. Pulisic had found the back of the net 5 times and made 7 assists in 42 appearances for the Bundesliga club last season. However, he is still young and can play in multiple positions which makes him a perfect fit for any of his potential suitors.
