Griezmann Eyes Orlando City Move This Summer

French forward Antoine Griezmann is reportedly closing in on a move to Major League Soccer side Orlando City, with a potential transfer to the United States expected this summer, according to Goal.com.

As reported by The Athletic and cited by Goal.com, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner has received official permission to travel to the US to finalize the deal, following weeks of links with the club.

Earlier reports suggested that Griezmann was considering leaving Atletico Madrid for a move stateside as early as late February. However, the club’s qualification for the Copa del Rey final delayed any immediate decision. The final against Real Sociedad is scheduled for April 19, and the veteran forward is said to be keen on departing with silverware.

Despite the MLS primary transfer window being closed, Griezmann remains determined to complete the move. If negotiations proceed as planned, he is expected to join Orlando City at the end of the European season.

The 35-year-old has previously made clear his intention to play in MLS, citing his strong interest in American sports. He has frequently been seen attending NBA games and has been linked in the past with clubs such as LAFC, Chicago Fire, and briefly Inter Miami.

Should the transfer go through, Griezmann would immediately rank among the league’s top players. The French international has scored 44 goals for his national team, won the 2018 World Cup, and finished as a runner-up in 2022.

He also holds the record as Atletico Madrid’s all-time top scorer and has been named to La Liga’s Team of the Season four times. Although he has experienced a dip in form this season — scoring six goals in La Liga and five in the Copa del Rey — his experience continues to play a key role for the Spanish side.