BARCELONA are reportedly trying to rush through a cut-price £22million deal for Antoine Griezmann to join Atletico Madrid permanently.
The Frenchman, 31, has hit the headlines this term due to the bizarre clause inserted into his loan agreement.
He has only been appearing off the bench after the hour mark for Diego Simeone’s side.
That is due to Atletico being obliged to pay Barcelona £35m if he plays in 50 per cent of their game time during his loan period.
Forward Griezmann is growing increasingly frustrated over his substitute appearances, which has sparked Manchester United’s interest.
Erik ten Hag is believed to be plotting a January swoop for the World Cup winner if his current situation at Atletico remains unsolved.
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However, now a fresh report from Mundo Deportivo claims that Barcelona are looking to negotiate a transfer with their LaLiga rival’s for a reduced £22m.
And they want the deal completed by January 7 – the date the two teams face each other for the first time this season in LaLiga.
Barca could still take legal action if it is not resolved but they would rather try to find an amicable compromise first.
The Catalan team are insisting that Atletico have already triggered the option to buy during the first of his two-year loan when he featured for over 50 per cent of their game time.
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From his eight games this campaign, Griezmann has chipped in with three goals – two of which have come in LaLiga.
All of his outings in the Spanish top-flight have come after the 60th-minute this season.
Atletico boss Simeone has strongly hinted that the restrictions have been placed on him from the higher-ups at the club.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
