Manchester United given huge encouragement in Griezmann chase

Antoine Griezmann has told Atletico Madrid for the first time that he intends on leaving the Spanish giants this summer paving the way for Manchester United to sign their top transfer target.

Jose Mourinho’s side have been chasing Griezmann all season after earmarking the France international as their No.1 transfer target very early on in the season, but a deal to bring the forward to Old Trafford was thought to be very complex.

Griezmann rated his chances of joining United 6 out of 10 during a TV interview prior to the Europa League final, which United won, and Mourinho’s side have now been given their clearest indication yet that they can sign the Atletico superstar.

“Antoine Griezmann has informed the hierarchy of the club that he wants to leave,” reports COPE, via AS.

United aren’t the only team interested in signing Griezmann but are one of very few that would have no problem triggering his €100m (£86.9m) release clause this summer.

The 26-year-old is exactly the sort of world class talent that can transform Mourinho’s misfiring United side into genuine title contenders and would represent the best No.7 at Old Trafford since Cristiano Ronaldo left the club in 2009.

As well as weighing in with a direct hand in 74 goals in 111 appearances for Atletico in the last three league campaigns, Griezmann would also provide United’s attack with a high work rate. In fact, only five players have won possession in the attacking third more times in this period than Griezmann (58).

For more stats on Antoine Griezmann, click here to visit his WhoScored player page