Atlético Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly close to coming to an agreement on a fee for Antoine Griezmann, who is wanted by Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta and Edu reportedly wanted to sign the France international during the summer transfer window. It is believed that they are still monitoring a January transfer as well.
A deal did not materialize before the September 1st deadline, however the situation remained open owing to some unusual circumstances involving Griezmann, Atlético Madrid, and Barcelona.
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This season, the Frenchman has only appeared in a match for Atlético Madrid after the 60-minute mark. This is because Diego Simeone runs the risk of triggering a clause that would require him to purchase the striker for €40m (£35m).
Griezmann is on a two-year loan at the Wanda Metropolitano, and the clause will be triggered if he plays more than 45 minutes in 50% of the games during that time.
The 31-year-old appeared in 81% of games during the first year, so things are levelling out now as Atlético are playing poker with Barcelona.
Their persistence appears to have paid off, as Arsenal’s chances of acquiring Griezmann are now rapidly dwindling.
Barça and Atlético are close to agreeing to reduce Antoine Griezmann’s transfer clause from $40M to $25M, according to @lequipe
It could mean the end of the 60th-minute substitutions 😅 pic.twitter.com/maPoVGBWLO
— B/R Football (@brfootball) September 13, 2022
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According to L’Equipe, Atlético Madrid and Barcelona are close to finding an agreement which will see that £35m sum lowered to €25m. It is believed that it is a sum Diego Simeone is happy to pay.
With Atlético Madrid happy to exercise a £22m option, Griezmann is now anticipated to start matches from the opening minute.
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