With just a day until Griezmann is officially presented as a new Barcelona player, the controversy surrounding his transfer continues to mount. The two clubs have found themselves embroiled in a war of words over the way the deal has been carried that threatens to drag on for some time to come, especially with Atleti planning to report Barcelona to FIFA for their conduct.
Sevan Karian, lawyer of Griezmann, was the one who deposited his release clause this Saturday, which after 1st July became 120 million Euros. However, Atleti are suggesting that they have proof that Griezmann signed a contract with Barcelona in March - when his release clause still stood at 200 million Euros. This is the amount that Atlético are now demanding.
Today, Karian has spoken to 'L'Équipe' to express his client's disappointment and anger over how the transfer has gone down. "He is very disappointed by the attitude of Atlético and their management, who act in bad faith and say the opposite of what they said in private," he said
Regarding Atleti's desire to report Griezmann and Barça to FIFA, Karian said: "Let them do as they see fit, we'll do the same if necessary." His tone was clear and threatening - just a few hours before Barcelona's new striker is presented at the Camp Nou.
"For the moment, the only thing that matters to him is this new chapter in his career, which he wants to celebrate this weekend discovering his new home," he concluded, highlighting Griezmann's desire to leave this messy transfer behind and thrive in Catalonia.