Key Takeaways:
- Orlando City are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sign Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid
- The French forward, aged 34, is under contract with Atletico Madrid until 2027 but has long held ambitions to play in the US
- Griezmann has contributed 12 goals and two assists in 35 appearances this season, averaging one goal involvement every 111 minutes
Transfer Negotiations Progress as MLS Interest Intensifies
Atletico Madrid’s reliance on Antoine Griezmann has grown over the course of the season, yet the club has now been reminded to start preparing for a future without their talismanic forward. Reports indicate that Griezmann is engaged in advanced discussions regarding a move away from the Spanish capital, which could materialise in the upcoming summer transfer window.
🚨🟣 BREAKING: Orlando City advance in talks to sign Antoine Griezmann from Atlético Madrid.
Negotiations are underway between all parties as @TomBogert @MarioCortegana report.
Orlando want Griezmann to join in the next weeks after director Ricardo Moreira’s missions in Madrid. pic.twitter.com/x3JvnG1glR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 23, 2026
The Athletic reports that Orlando City are leading the chase among four Major League Soccer clubs interested in Griezmann’s signature. Orlando retain the ‘discovery rights’ to the France international, affording them precedence in talks. The club is eager to complete the signing prior to the end of the MLS transfer window on 26th March; however, representatives for the player suggest a move before the conclusion of the European season appears unlikely.
No formal agreement has yet been finalised, and talks between Atletico Madrid and Orlando City have not commenced at this stage. Nonetheless, Atletico are expected to respect Griezmann’s preferences during negotiations when the time arises.
| Player | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Contract Until | Interested MLS Club(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antoine Griezmann | Atletico Madrid | 35 | 12 | 2 | 2027 | Orlando City (discovery rights), 3 others |
Career Milestones and Ongoing Impact for Atletico
Griezmann remains a key figure at the Metropolitano, defying the effects of time despite being in the final stages of his career. Last summer, speculation over his departure existed, but he extended his stay by signing a two-year contract extension, theoretically committing him to Atletico Madrid until 2027. Throughout his tenure, Griezmann has been open about his intention to wrap up his playing days in the United States, making an MLS move appear increasingly probable.
Despite reports suggesting diminishing athleticism, Griezmann’s influence has not waned. This campaign, he has registered 12 goals and contributed two assists from 35 appearances, maintaining a consistent output with a goal involvement every 111 minutes. Manager Diego Simeone continues to laud the record goalscorer and has demonstrated trust by starting him in crucial fixtures, such as the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Barcelona, where Griezmann played a starring role in a 4-0 victory.
