Blank cheque for 'Grizzi'
Worried about his future, Atletico Madrid chiefs don't want to lose Antoine Griezmann. The Frenchman may be seriously considering a move to Barcelona, but Atletico CEO Gil Marin is preparing his final offensive.
As reported by the newspaper 'AS', the offices of Wanda Metropolitano are working against the clock to prepare their biggest star a contract he can't refuse. There is talk of the possibility that 'Grizzi' may even receive a blank cheque.
As a mark of respect for the 'Little Prince,' Atletico would put an offer on the table, totalling around €19million that could potentially stretch to €20million, a figure that would make Griezmann the third best-paid player in the league behind only Ronaldo and Messi.
It's thought that the money could convince Griezmann to stay, but his release clause could be a significant issue. Currently, the French striker has a €100million buy-out clause, given the current state of the market, is a figure that seems fairly low.
At the Wanda the idea would be to raise it to €150million or €200million, that would result in the Madrid club receiving considerably more in the event of a transfer than they would if Griezmann left now.
Although they are aware that a transfer is a possibility, Atletico don't want to contemplate their future without the Frenchman. They consider that he, along with Oblak, are the pillars holding up Atletico. The club will compete for the Champions League next year with the final being played in their home stadium.