Orlando City in advanced talks to land Griezmann from Atletico for 2026 season

Orlando City SC are in advanced discussions over a potential move for Antoine Griezmann, with the Major League Soccer side targeting the forward for their open designated player slot.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the 34-year-old is Orlando’s primary focus, although no formal agreement has yet been reached.

The Florida club’s sporting leadership has travelled to Spain on multiple occasions in an effort to progress talks.

Griezmann has long been linked with a move to MLS and has openly spoken about his admiration for American culture and sport.

He has frequently spent time in the United States during off-seasons and has expressed interest in finishing his career there.

Orlando currently hold Griezmann’s MLS discovery rights, giving them priority should he decide to make the move across the Atlantic.

The French international remains under contract at Atletico Madrid, where he continues to play a significant role this season.

Atletico are competing on multiple fronts, including a deep run in the Copa del Rey, which complicates any potential mid-season departure.

Sources in Spain suggest that while discussions have taken place regarding the player’s future, no formal negotiations between the clubs have been finalised.

Griezmann is understood to be unlikely to leave Atletico before the summer transfer window, with all parties focused on the current campaign.

The forward is Atletico’s all-time leading scorer and remains an influential figure under Diego Simeone.

Despite being in the latter stages of his career, he has continued to contribute goals and assists in domestic and European competition.

A move to Orlando would represent one of the most high-profile acquisitions in the club’s history.

The MLS side previously attracted global names such as Kaka and Nani during earlier phases of their development.

Orlando are hopeful of persuading Griezmann to commit ahead of the league’s primary registration deadline, though timing remains uncertain.

Should the deal materialise, Griezmann would join a growing list of elite European players who have chosen MLS in the later stages of their careers.

For now, discussions are ongoing and centred on long-term planning rather than immediate movement.

The situation remains fluid, but Orlando’s intent is clear as they position themselves for a marquee signing that could redefine their ambitions in the league.