Orlando City has reportedly made an offer to French forward Antoine Griezmann for the upcoming season, according to a post on social media platform X by NotizieMercato24. The potential move for Griezmann, a key player for Atlético Madrid, has sparked discussion about the growing interest of Major League Soccer in attracting high-profile European talent. This development in the transfer of Antoine Griezmann comes as MLS clubs look to bolster their rosters ahead of the 2026 season.
The reported offer from Orlando City represents a significant attempt to bring a global superstar to the Florida-based club. Griezmann, 33, has a decorated career, including a World Cup title with France in 2018 and consistent performances in La Liga and the Champions League. His arrival would undoubtedly elevate Orlando City’s profile and potentially attract more fans to Exploria Stadium.
Still, Griezmann’s future is currently uncertain. Recent reports suggest that Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone is actively working to persuade the forward to remain with the Spanish club. Simeone’s efforts are reportedly fueled by Griezmann’s crucial role in Atlético’s recent Copa del Rey semifinal victory over FC Barcelona, where he demonstrated his continued importance to the team despite a 3-0 loss in the second leg. World Soccer Talk details Simeone’s attempts to convince Griezmann to stay.
Adding to the complexity, ESPN reported 21 hours ago that Griezmann has decided to postpone any transfer to Orlando City until the complete of the current season. Tuttomercatoweb relays this information, indicating a potential shift in Griezmann’s thinking.
Orlando City’s Pursuit and MLS’s Growing Appeal
Orlando City has been actively pursuing Griezmann, reportedly engaging in advanced talks with Atlético Madrid. The club has one Designated Player slot available, making a move for a player of Griezmann’s caliber financially feasible. The primary MLS transfer window closes on March 26, adding a sense of urgency to the negotiations. The potential acquisition of Griezmann aligns with a broader trend of MLS clubs targeting established European players to enhance the league’s competitiveness and global appeal.
The interest in Griezmann isn’t new. MLS clubs have “long coveted” the French star, according to World Soccer Talk. His potential arrival would be a significant boost for Orlando City and MLS as a whole.
Simeone’s Influence and Griezmann’s Commitment
Diego Simeone’s influence appears to be a pivotal factor in Griezmann’s potential decision to remain at Atlético Madrid. The manager has reportedly emphasized Griezmann’s importance to the team, particularly following their Copa del Rey success. Simeone has publicly acknowledged Griezmann’s contributions, stating that the veteran forward “is in a position where he deserves to be able to choose” given his service to the club. This public support seems to be swaying Griezmann towards staying with Atlético for the remainder of the season.
Griezmann himself has consistently demonstrated commitment to Atlético Madrid, further complicating a potential move. His performance in the Copa del Rey semifinal underscored his value to the team, potentially strengthening his bond with the club and its supporters. The situation remains fluid, but Simeone’s efforts and Griezmann’s dedication to Atlético are significant obstacles to a transfer to Orlando City.
What’s Next for Griezmann and Orlando City?
As of March 5, 2026, the immediate future of Antoine Griezmann remains with Atlético Madrid, with a decision to postpone a move to Orlando City until the end of the season. The MLS transfer window closes on March 26, meaning any immediate deal is increasingly unlikely. The next key development will be Griezmann’s performance with Atlético Madrid in the remainder of the Copa del Rey competition and La Liga season. Further updates on his potential availability will likely emerge in the coming months, particularly as the end of the European season approaches.
Orlando City will likely continue to explore options for strengthening their squad, regardless of the outcome of their pursuit of Griezmann. The club’s focus will be on identifying players who can contribute to their long-term success in MLS. Fans and observers of the league will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what impact it will have on the future of both Orlando City and Major League Soccer.
This story is developing.
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