Orlando and MLS ‘to push’ to sign Griezmann before 26 March | OneFootball

Orlando and other MLS clubs are pushing to sign Antoine Griezmann before 26 March, with a move to a 2026 World Cup host nation being targeted. The forward is said to be tempted.

According to The Athletic, Griezmann, who turns 35 on 21 March, is in talks with several MLS sides, notably the Orlando Pirates. The Florida club is understood to have secured his discovery rights, giving it priority if agreement is reached with Atlético Madrid and the player.

Atlético face Club Bruges in a Champions League play-off second leg on Tuesday at 18:45 after a 3-3 first leg.

San Diego and Los Angeles FC have also expressed interest. LAFC could move if Denis Bouanga departs, with Fluminense and Inter Miami keen on the former Saint-Étienne forward.

Griezmann has long spoken of an MLS adventure but extended with Atlético in June, committing until 2027. This season he has been used less, with 14 starts in 35 appearances and returns of 12 goals and two assists.

He is said to have recently met representatives from the North American league and appears increasingly open to the switch, though the current transfer window is tight. A secondary MLS window runs from 13 July to 2 September. Diego Simeone has called Griezmann and Koke club legends who play important roles, adding they will not give up their place before the season ends and that their impact matters whether they play 20, 60 or 90 minutes.

Source: L'Équipe