Chelsea ready to rival Man United in battle for Griezmann
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Antoine Griezmann could be the most in-demand player on the planet next summer, and if a Premier League side is to win his signature, then it’s set to be a two-horse race between Chelsea and Manchester United.
The Old Trafford outfit have been linked with the Atletico Madrid ace for a number of seasons, but reports today suggest Chelsea are ready to get their financial elbows out if needs be.
Griezmann only signed a new contract with Los Rojiblancos in the summer, and it included a monster a £85m release fee.
But coach Diego Simeone is set to depart the club at the end of next season, and French international Griezmann has previously stated he may look elsewhere once the Argentine leaves.
The forward shone for Atletico last season, scoring 29 goals as the Vicente Calderon outfit reached another Champions League final, while also finishing just three points off the pace in the La Liga title race.
Griezmann took that form onto the international stage in the summer’s European Championships, bagging six goals and two assists for Les Blues to be named player of the tournament.
After spending a world record £89m on Paul Pogba this summer, Griezmann’s fee shouldn’t deter United, while Chelsea were willing to spend £70m on Romelu Lukaku, highlighting their financial clout.
The success of United or Chelsea’s bids however, could hinge on domestic success this season.
Both sides are out to reclaim a spot in the top four and return to Champions League football.
Failure to do so however, would heavily limit their appeal for any prospective signing.
With so many Champions League-qualifying rivals set to also court Griezmann’s signature, Chelsea and United can’t afford to slip up.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
