Antoine Griezmann Eyes MLS Move, Set to Sign with Orlando City

French football star Antoine Griezmann is reportedly close to signing with Major League Soccer's Orlando City, with a move targeted for this summer. The Atletico Madrid forward has been permitted to travel to the United States to finalize the deal, though his departure awaits the outcome of the Copa Del Ray final in April. Griezmann, a World Cup winner and Atletico's record scorer, has long expressed a desire to play in MLS and is a known fan of American sports. Despite a current dip in form, his experience and pedigree would make him an immediate standout in the North American league.

Key Points: Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City: MLS Move Likely

  • Summer move to MLS
  • Deal pending Copa Del Ray final
  • MLS primary window closed
  • Fan of American sports
  • Atletico's all-time top scorer
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Atletico's Antoine Griezmann likely to sign with Orlando City

World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann is reportedly set to leave Atletico Madrid and sign with MLS club Orlando City this summer, per reports.

"Griezmann has been officially permitted to travel to the US to seal the deal - Goal.com"

Paris, March 23

French and Atletico Madrid footballer Antoine Griezmann is reportedly likely to sign with Major League Soccer club Orlando City, eyeing a move to US this summer, reported Goal.com.

As per a report by The Athletic, as quoted by Goal.com, Griezmann, a 2018 FIFA World Cup winner with France, has been officially permitted to travel to the US to seal the deal after being linked to the club for the past few weeks.

Reports had earlier emerged that Griezmann would consider leaving the Spanish club for a move to the US at the end of February, but their qualification for the Copa Del Ray final delayed his switch. The final against Real Sociedad is scheduled for April 19, and the veteran wants to leave the club with some silverware to his name.

Griezmann wants to seal the deal despite the primary transfer window of MLS being closed officially. He would move to North America at the end of the European football season if everything goes right.

The 35-year-old has openly made it clear that he intends to play in MLS, as he is a massive fan of American sports. He has often been pictured attending NBA basketball matches and been linked with other MLS clubs in the past, including LAFC, Chicago Fire, and, briefly, Inter Miami.

Griezmann being present would immediately make him amongst the best players as the French captain has scored 44 goals for the national side, won the 2018 World Cup and ended as runners-up in 2022.

He is Atletico's all-time top-scorer and made it to La Liga's 'Team of the Season' four times. However, this year, he is facing a form slump, with six goals in La Liga so far and five in the Copa Del Ray this season. But despite that, his experience still remains vital for the club.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Interesting move. At 35, he's thinking about life after top-flight European football. Many Indian athletes could learn from this - planning the next phase while you're still at the top. Wishing him all the best in Orlando!
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Aman W
Respect for wanting to leave Atletico with a trophy. That shows his character. But as an Atleti fan who stays up late to watch La Liga matches here in Delhi, this is a sad day. He's a legend at the club. End of an era.
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Sarah B
Good for Orlando City! This is exactly what MLS needs - more international stars to raise the profile. Maybe one day the Indian Super League can attract this caliber of player too. The fan experience would be incredible.
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Vikram M
With due respect to a World Cup winner, the article mentions his form slump. At 35, is he really going to be "among the best" in MLS, or is this just a big name signing for marketing? Hope he proves me wrong and plays well.
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Kavya N
He's a fan of American sports, so good for him following his passion! Reminds me of our own cricket legends who played in overseas leagues towards the end of their careers. New challenge, new country. All the best, Antoine! 🙌

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