Lionel Messi ‘calls Antoine Griezmann to persuade Atletico Madrid star to join Barcelona’
Griezmann starred for Atleti in the Europa League final last week, netting twice as they beat Marseille 3-0 in Lyon
Sponsored by
LIONEL MESSI has reportedly called Antoine Griezmann to persuade the Atletico Madrid star to join Barcelona.
Griezmann starred in the Europa League final last week, netting twice as Atleti beat Marseille 3-0 in Lyon.
Argentine Messi has been in contact with the French ace over a transfer to the Nou Camp this summer - with Griezmann boasting an £88million release clause in his contract, according to AS.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner said: "they are waiting for him with open arms in the Barca dressing room".
However, Diego Simone's side have offered a new five-year contract £17.5million-a-season, which is more than Barca are prepared to offer, in a bid to force him to stay at the Wanda Metropolitano.
After moving to a new state-of-the-art stadium and last summer, and claiming their first trophy in four years with a Europa League triumph, Atletico believe they are a club on the up.
most read barcelona news
Griezmann has been assured no one will be sold, despite strong rumours in-demand goalkeeper Jan Oblak could leave.
Furthermore, he has been reminded he is an idol among the Rojiblanco faithful, whereas at Barcelona, he would become just another player.
Atletico are, however, still working on potential replacements should they fail to convince him to stay.
