Barcelona and Atletico are in direct contact to find a solution to the Griezmann situation

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are in direct contact to solve the Antoine Griezmann dilemma.

What is the situation?

Griezmann joined Atletico on a two-year loan during the summer transfer window the previous year after leaving Barcelona. Its loan team covered all 31-year-old employees during this period. A mandatory permanent purchase clause worth 40 million euros has also been inserted.

Even though the legal situation is complicated, Atletico would be required to pay the above-mentioned sum if Griezmann plays more than 45 minutes of football in 50% of the team’s games this season.

The two clubs are at odds over the €40m payment. Since Griezmann played 45 minutes or more in 50% of games, he was eligible in his first season on loan, according to Barca, who believe the permanent buy-in clause has already been triggered.

Atleti argue that the 50% matches played requirement must be met in both seasons for the provision to take effect. And this season, they have limited Griezmann’s playing time to less than 30 minutes per game (except Madrid Derby) to avoid paying the €40m.

Barcelona are preparing a lawsuit for Griezmann’s payment. Atletico only have to pay if they play 50% or more of the minutes they are available for.

The minutes on which he was replaced by Atletico this season… 😅 pic.twitter.com/sDoaV6kkTF

— 90min (@90min_Football) September 12, 2022

The Atleti hierarchy are more than willing to bring him back to Camp Nou at the end of this season. Contrary to popular belief, manager Simeone believes Griezmann can still contribute throughout the season.

Barcelona and Atletico are in contact to resolve the situation

There had been rumors that a deal between the two clubs was almost done, but these were quickly denied.

Romano now claims that Barcelona and Atletico spoke to each other directly to find a compromise to settle the dispute.

As it all unfolds, rumors claim that Manchester United are interested in the Frenchman and even contacted him this summer. However, Romano denies the rumours, saying they are baseless.

🚨| Atlético Madrid and Barcelona are in direct contact to find a solution and maybe reach an agreement to settle the situation of Antoine Griezmann. 🇬🇧

[🎖: @FabrizioRomano via @UnitedStandMUFC on YouTube]

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) September 19, 2022

Simeone is happy with Griezmann but Atletico Madrid board don’t want to pay €40m to sign him. Barcelona, ​​however, are adamant that the clause is paid.

It would be fascinating to see if the two sides can reach a solution now that negotiations are underway.