Manchester United could lose out on long-term target Antoine Griezmann to Spanish giants Barcelona next summer.

The Red Devils have long been admirers of the 26-year-old Frenchman and came close to signing him in the last transfer window.

However it appears that Atletico Madrid's Griezmann could now be set for a switch to his current clubs La Liga rivals at the Nou Camp.

Marca report that Barca are 'very far ahead' of United in the race for his signature.

Antoine Griezmann in action with Chelsea's Davide Zappacosta and Tiemoue Bakayoko (
Image:
Action Images via Reuters)
Antoine Griezmann shields the ball from Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas (
Image:
Action Images via Reuters)

Jose Mourinho has followed Griezmann's progress since his impressive displays for France at the European Championships in 2016.

United looked to be Griezmann's next destination in the summer, until he turned down the approach in favour of signing a new deal at Atletico.

Atletico are currently banned from making any transfers, which was part of the reason why Griezmann was kept at the club.

But now it looks likely that Barcelona will make their move, as they see the prolific striker as a perfect replacement for Neymar following his switch to PSG in August.