Antoine Griezmann ‘contacted by Manchester City’ as Pep Guardiola eyes Atletico Madrid striker

But Catalan paper claim that Griezmann is only considered as a back-up target by the Blaugrana.

Should they fail in their attempt to land Coutinho, the report says that Barca are in a better position to land Griezmann than Prem suitors Manchester United and City.

But that has not stopped City make initial enquiries as they look to get one over United.

United were keen on signing Paul Pogba's pal last summer, but Fifa's decision to uphold Atletico's transfer ban scuppered any hopes of a move.

Griezmann instead signed a new contract until 2022, which saw his buy-out clause doubled from £85million to £170m.

The Atletico striker has been in poor form this season, scoring just twice in La Liga.

This week  claimed the Catalans have stolen a march on their rivals by agreeing a deal in principle with Griezmann.

With Luis Suarez struggling in front of goal, Barca are in the market for a long-term solution in attack.

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Griezmann, 26, is still one of the best strikers around, despite his struggles, and knows La Liga well.

But Jose Mourinho will be keen to add firepower to his attack this summer and will surely come calling again.

Guardiola's side have netted 38 goals in their opening 11 games, but money is no issue and the prospect of a move to the Etihad could appeal.