MLS will wait: why Antoine Griezmann stayed at Atlético de Madrid over Orlando City | OneFootball

Antoine Griezmann has opted to remain at Atlético de Madrid until the end of the season, keeping any move to MLS on hold.

According to L'Équipe, Orlando City made a concrete approach and entered advanced talks, yet no agreement was struck with the player or between the clubs, and he did not wish to leave mid-season for MLS, a league that has long attracted him.

Orlando have not walked away and still hope to persuade him before 26 March, the end of the transfer window in the United States. It would take a major change of heart to bring him across the Atlantic this month.

Beyond finances, the 34-year-old wants to see through his story in Spain. The prospect of a Copa del Rey final on 18 April against his formative club Real Sociedad weighs, as does a possible Champions League run, with Atlético meeting Tottenham in the last 16.

If his stance holds, a fresh decision awaits in the summer as he enters the final year of his contract. Orlando retain priority, but other clubs, including Inter Miami and Montréal FC, have him on their discover lists.

Source: L'Équipe