Former Griezmann agent confirms scrapped Man United plans

Matt Stead

Manchester United would have signed Antoine Griezmann had Atletico Madrid not had their transfer ban upheld.

In a long-forgotten transfer saga, United pursued a move for Atletico forward Griezmann almost before last season had ended.

The France international was keen on a move to Old Trafford, linking up with close friend Paul Pogba at club level.

Atletico were banned from registering players until January of next year however, and Griezmann’s move was subsequently shelved due to the player’s loyalty.

United moved to sign Romelu Lukaku instead, but things could have panned out much differently.

“Griezmann didn’t feel able to leave Atletico,” confirmed Eric Olhats, the player’s former agent.

“He’s been integral to them and has shown his commitment to the club at a time when they couldn’t sign players. Without the FIFA sanctions he would have gone.”