Antoine Griezmann is reportedly closing in on a deal to join Orlando City, with plans to move to Major League Soccer (MLS) this summer, according to The Athletic. The former France captain has been linked with a transfer to the Florida club for several weeks and has received official clearance to travel to the United States to finalize a permanent move.
A Long-Awaited Transfer
Rumors about Griezmann's potential transfer to Orlando City first surfaced at the end of February. However, Atlético Madrid's successful qualification for the Copa del Rey final seemingly delayed his departure, as he was eager to conclude his time at Atlético Madrid by securing some silverware. Despite the closure of MLS's primary transfer window, the French forward has remained determined to complete the deal. If everything goes according to plan, he is expected to make his move to North America following the conclusion of the European club season.
Griezmann's Aspirations for MLS
Griezmann has long expressed a desire to play in Major League Soccer. The Frenchman is an enthusiastic fan of American sports and is frequently seen attending NBA games. Over the years, he has been linked with various MLS clubs, including LAFC, Chicago Fire, and briefly, Inter Miami. However, it appears that Orlando City is now his most likely destination.
A Stellar Addition for Orlando City
If Griezmann joins Orlando City, he would instantly rank among the top players in the league. The 34-year-old has had a distinguished career, having captained the French national team and scored 44 goals internationally. Although his form has dipped this year, he remains a pivotal player for Atlético Madrid, with six goals and one assist in La Liga, as well as five goals during Atlético's Copa del Rey campaign.
Orlando City has faced challenges recently, including parting ways with long-time manager Oscar Pareja on March 11 and suffering a heavy 5-0 defeat to Nashville SC. However, the club boasts a promising young core and a history of attracting top European talent. With Griezmann potentially coming on board, they may be on the brink of elevating their performance and competitiveness in the league.
