Barcelona move an inch closer to signing Antoine Griezmann after Atletico agree terms for the World Cup winner’s replacement.
Barcelona have already agreed personal terms with Antoine Griezmann as confirmed by CEO Gil Marin. However, the deal will get finalized in the coming days after Diego Simeone lands Joao Felix from Benfica.
Diego Simeone was actively searching for a replacement of Antoine Griezmann, who confirmed his departure a month ago. The 19-year-old was wanted by Manchester City and Manchester United, but he has turned the English duo down in the favour of a move to Atletico Madrid.
The reliable Fabrizio Romano says that Atletico Madrid are trying to wrap the signature of Joao Felix for a fee lesser than €120 million. If Benfica refuse to budge with that amount, the Colchoneros will pay the release clause. He has also confirmed that the youngster is already in Madrid, waiting for medicals to proceed further in the deal. This transfer could be announced any time soon.
This has come as huge news for Barcelona, who are willing to match Griezmann’s release clause, which is €125 million. Although Felix’s announcement could be announced any time soon, the Blaugrana will not step up their pursuit until July 1. The French International’s release clause goes down to €125 million from €200 million during the kick off of the pre-season.
Atletico Madrid are expecting smooth negotiations for Antoine Griezmann next month. The Blaugrana are closer than ever to land the World Cup winner from Wanda Metropolitano, howbeit decent links with Neymar suggests otherwise.
Antoine Griezmann moved to Atletico Madrid from Real Sociedad for €30 million in 2014. He made 257 appearances for the club, scoring 133 and assisting another 50 during this five-year stint. On the other hand, Joao Felix learned his trade at Benfica and has gone on to become one of the hottest prospects in Europe currently.
Here’s how Twitter has reacted..
João Felix from Benfica to Atlético Madrid, here we go! Total agreement with the player for 5 years contract, the clubs are now finalizing last details then the deal will be done. ⚪️🔴 #Atleti #Benfica #transfers
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2019
Details about João Felix to Atlético + about Antoine Griezmann and his agreement with Barcelona ➡️ https://t.co/bIQpGrTyMw
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2019
Done deal for both sides. Joao Felix to Ateltico Madrid and Antoine Griezmann to Barcelona, great move for both players, but the most important thing that Atleti have got themselves an absolute gem of a player.
— Mootaz Chehade (@MHChehade) June 19, 2019
Griezmann out, Felix in 🔄
Reports claim that Atletico Madrid are set to pay Joao Felix’s €120 million release clause 😯
Good business? 💰 pic.twitter.com/unVEG0irpG
— Goal (@goal) June 19, 2019
🚨[Fabrizio Romano] Felix will be the replacement for Griezmann. Antoine has agreed personal terms with Barcelona 3 months ago – as confirmed by Atlético CEO Gil Marin – and he expects the agreement with Barça will be respected. #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/7NM1NrSL7A
— Culé (@Cule_Pulse1) June 19, 2019
What’s next?
Barcelona can use a completely different dimension upon Antoine Griezmann’s arrival at the club. On the other hand, Joao Felix could thrive under Diego Simeone as well.
