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3 months ago
20
Los Angeles FC bosses could be making a sensational move fro Athletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann, as he enters the last year of his contract with the Spanish giants.
If it were to happen, it would be a significant coup for LAFC bosses, who would be pulling one over on MLS rivals, David Beckham-owned, Inter Miami.
Griezmann, now 33, is known to be keen on a move to the United States, after long being the subject of interest to several MLS clubs in north America.
Reports in French daily, L'Equipe, said the World Cup-winning forward was likely to reunite with old Barcelona teammates, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in Florida, but this has been thrown into doubt after LA chiefs want to put an audacious move for the Frenchman, together.
Griezmann is entering the final year of his contract with Atletico Madrid, and is believed to have no interest in staying in the Diego Simeone-managed team, after a second stint at the club that has lasted three years.
Atletico forward Antoine Griezmann could make a shock move to MLS side, Los Angeles FC
The versatile forward would be able to leave as a free agent upon the expiry of his current agreement, which comes to an end in June 2025.
For MLS clubs interested, Griezmann wouldn't come at an extravagant cost, with a relatively low release clause of £8.4million ($11million).
LAFC have already brought major European talent to the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California – albeit it players in the latter stages of their career.
This includes compatriots Hugo Lloris and Oliver Giroud, who have both left European leagues to join wind-down their careers on the US's west coast.
David Beckhmam's Inter Miami were thought to be in pole position to sign the Frenchman
Griezmann (right) could yet reunite with former teammates Messi (left) and Suarez (centre)
Griezmann also has been clear about his love for American sports and that he envisions himself playing Stateside. Last year, he was quoted as saying: 'My target is to end up there.
'With everything that I like about American sports, playing in MLS and enjoying myself, being able to win things and be at my best level.
'First I want to make history here and win trophies at Atleti. After that we'll see... I think the arrival of Leo [Messi], 'Busi' [Sergio Busquets] and Jordi [Alba] is good for the league.
That and signing younger players, especially from South America, it's the best thing the league can do.'
English (US)