European Giants To Activate Release Clause Of Antoine Griezmann
REUTERS/Andrea Comas
Antoine Griezmann to Man United was the talk of the papers throughout the summer, with the move believed to be all but done till the last minute decision of the forward to not go ahead.
Now, speculation over a January transfer for the 26-year-old has emerged, largely owing to his intact release clause, and has also brought other clubs into the fray. Prominent amongst these were PSG, who are monitoring him in their attempt to build a formidable attack.
However, a new powerhouse has entered the pursuit, and this might be one that the Frenchman will have a hard time refusing.
As per Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are willing to activate the player’s €99.5 million release clause and secure his services to their ranks. The intention apparently stems from an attempt to ease the pressure off Lionel Messi, with Luis Suarez yet to get into the deadly form he enjoyed last season.
Further, manager Ernesto Valverde is personally interested in making the signing, and the Catalan board has given him positive response about the move. The necessity will also be influenced by the shock long-term injury of their record signing Ousmane Dembélé, and as of such, a quick replacement has to be on the table.
Now, Griezmann has quite a platter of options to choose from. It is believed that the Premier League giants might have an edge due to their initial interest as well as a personal preference on the part of the highly rated Frenchman.
Even though PSG might provide a more financially lucrative deal, it is unlikely that the Ligue 1 will appeal to the player’s desire for a real challenge. The same holds true for a move to the Camp Nou, having already established himself amongst the La Liga elite.
Written by Naveen Kelvin 
A writer trying to craft the poetry within football. Purpose in life is to Make Good Art.