Bartomeu again denies Griezmann to Barça links

"We've always said it, we haven't talked to Antoine Griezmann, there's nothing there, we'll see how the market evolves over the next few days and weeks", said the Barcelona chief to 'RAC 1' in an interview in which, despite the whirlwind of rumours that suggest the opposite, he denied that Barcelona had agreed a deal to sign the French forward.

Bartomeu then continued by explaining Barcelona's calm approach to the transfer market: "We have all of June, July and August. We are talking and making a strategy, also looking at Barça B, this year some players also have a chance to move from the second team to the first team. There will be some comings and some goings".

The Barcelona president's words sharply contradicted those of Atleti CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, who a few days ago stated where Griezmann's future lies: "I am clear about where Griezmann will play, I've known since March. It will be at Barcelona".

This comes after Griezmann announced that he will be leaving Atlético this summer, although he will be doing so after 1st July as this is when his release clause drops from 200 million Euros to 120 million Euros. The wait for his transfer, however, is generating a certain amount of tension for all parties involved.

Whilst the football world waits for a decision to be made, 'Mundo Deportivo' have reported that Atleti are studying the idea of reporting Barcelona for negotiating with a footballer who is still under contract at another club. This is an offence punishable by FIFA, and in the Spanish capital they are reportedly ready to take legal action against the La Liga champions.