Atletico Madrid superstar Antoine Griezmann's potential move to Manchester United could still happen, according to Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.
Atletico Transfer Ban Upheld, Griezmann Departure Unlikely?
On Thursday, the news broke that Atletico's transfer ban until January 2018 was upheld, meaning they will be unable to sign any players in the upcoming transfer window.
However, Balague believes this ruling will not dent the Red Devils' chances of signing the France international because the Spanish club will not be able to stop them activating his release clause.
"I think that it will keep going," Balague said via Sky Sports.
"Atletico Madrid feel Manchester United is willing to pay the €100 million of the buyout clause. Which means, of course, they can take Griezmann, there is no need for negotiations with Atletico Madrid if they paid €100 million.
"Unlike a couple of seasons ago, and for a couple of decades, it doesn't mean they would have to add 48% taxes. So €100 million, that's the cost of Griezmann.
"What has been interesting is that the strategy of Griezmann since the end of the season has been to say 'Well, we will see what happens' and he's been throwing hints that he could be leaving.
"Now he's put the ball into the hands of the chairman when he said 'It's all down to the chairman now'. Nobody really knows what he means because it's not down to the chairman.
"If Manchester United come with €100 million, they can take him. He wants to push on, he feels Atletico Madrid has become a little bit too small for him and is maybe willing to go to the next stage."
Man Utd's First Signing Revealed?
The 26-year-old made 53 appearances for the Rojiblancos in the 2016/17 campaign, scoring 26 goals and assisting a further 12 strikes.
Do you think Griezmann will stay at Atletico, or leave in the upcoming window? Have your say in the comments section below.
