ORLANDO, FL – In a move reverberating across the soccer world, Antoine Griezmann, the celebrated French forward currently with Atlético Madrid, has reached a verbal agreement to join Orlando City SC beginning in July 2026. The potential transfer, first reported by Fabrizio Romano, marks a significant coup for Major League Soccer and signals a growing trend of European stars choosing to play in the United States. This Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City deal has the potential to reshape the landscape of the MLS.
The agreement, structured as a free transfer contingent on the expiration of Griezmann’s contract with Atlético Madrid, comes after weeks of negotiation. Orlando City initially sought to secure Griezmann’s services as early as March, but those efforts were rebuffed by both the player and his current club, who prioritized completing the current season together. Griezmann, a key figure under manager Diego Simeone, was unwilling to disrupt Atlético’s campaign mid-season.
BREAKING: Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City, here we go! 🚨🇫🇷🇺🇸
Verbal agreement in place for French star to join MLS side. Agreement on deal for July 2026, free transfer from Atlético. After deal for March rejected, agreement done for summer.
Griezmann will travel this week to USA, as @marca reported. All set. ✨— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 10, 2024
According to Romano, Griezmann is expected to travel to the United States this week to finalize personal terms and undergo medical evaluations, a crucial step before the official contract signing. Reports from Spanish outlet Marca indicate the club intends to offer him the iconic number 7 jersey. The forward is anticipated to sign a two-year deal with an option for a further year.
Orlando City Secures Rights to Griezmann
Orlando City holds the discovery rights to Griezmann within MLS, giving them exclusive negotiating rights with the player. This strategic advantage allowed the club to aggressively pursue the 2018 World Cup champion. The move is expected to be facilitated through the Designated Player rule, which allows teams to sign players whose salaries exceed the league’s maximum salary cap. The Designated Player rule has been instrumental in attracting high-profile international talent to the MLS, including players like David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimović and Lionel Messi. Learn more about the Designated Player rule here.
A Legacy at Atlético Madrid
Griezmann, 33, leaves behind a storied career with Atlético Madrid, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer with over 200 goals across all competitions. His contributions have been pivotal to Atlético’s success, including a La Liga title in 2021 and a Europa League title in 2018. He has consistently performed at the highest level of European football, featuring prominently in the Champions League and UEFA Europa League. His experience on the international stage, with appearances in both the World Cup and the European Championship, will be invaluable to Orlando City.
Impact on the MLS and the Eastern Conference
This transfer represents one of the most ambitious signings in recent MLS history. Bringing a player of Griezmann’s caliber – a proven performer in the world’s most competitive leagues – to Orlando City is a clear statement of intent. The club, currently competing in the Eastern Conference, aims to elevate its profile and contend for MLS Cup. The arrival of Griezmann is expected to boost ticket sales, attract sponsorships, and enhance the league’s overall global appeal. The influx of European talent, exemplified by Griezmann’s impending arrival, is transforming the MLS into a more competitive and attractive league for both players and fans.
The Growing Trend of European Stars in MLS
Griezmann’s decision to join Orlando City follows a growing trend of established European players choosing to continue their careers in MLS. Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023 dramatically increased the league’s visibility and attracted a new wave of interest. Other notable European players currently in MLS include Giorgio Chiellini (LAFC) and Javier Hernández (LA Galaxy). This influx of talent is raising the overall quality of play and attracting larger audiences to MLS matches.
The league’s appeal is also bolstered by improvements in infrastructure, increased investment in youth development, and a growing fan base. The MLS is actively working to position itself as a premier destination for top soccer talent, and the signing of Antoine Griezmann is a significant step in that direction.
Orlando City’s pursuit of Griezmann demonstrates the club’s ambition and commitment to building a championship-caliber team. The club has invested heavily in its facilities and player development programs, and the addition of a player like Griezmann will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of soccer players in Florida.
The next key step will be Griezmann’s arrival in the United States this week and the completion of his medical examination. Once those formalities are completed, the official announcement and contract signing are expected to follow swiftly. Fans can stay updated on the latest developments through Orlando City’s official website and social media channels.
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