Barcelona ‘make Antoine Griezmann No1 priority’ — that could spell bad news for Manchester United and good news for Liverpool
Frenchman is major target for Red Devils, while any move from Catalans would surely end interest in Philippe Coutinho
BARCELONA have made Antoine Griezmann their new No1 priority, according to reports in Catalonia.
And that could spell bad news for Manchester United — and good news for Liverpool.
Mundo Deportivo claim "Operation Griezmann" is underway, with the Nou Camp giants ready to meet his £86million buy-out clause.
And the article claims the striker has given Barca the green light to open talks.
The Frenchman had been on the brink of joining United last summer, only for a change of heart once Atletico Madrid's Fifa-imposed transfer ban was upheld.
Should Barcelona move for the Rojiblancos star, it would surely end their interest in Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho.
Griezmann, 26, enjoyed a stellar 2016, which saw him finish third behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the Ballon d'Or standings.
However, his form has dipped drastically and he has struggled for goals so far this term — netting just three times in all competitions.
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING BLUE Chelsea ready to bring in former boss as stunning replacement for under-fire Conte
With the arrival of Ousmane Dembele, Barcelona are looking to drastically bring down the average age of their squad.
Moreover, they have an issue with Luis Suarez this season, who just cannot seem to find the back of the net.
most read in football
The same article claims Ernesto Valverde is a big fan of Griezmann and had targeted him immediately after replacing Luis Enrique as manager.
SUN BETS: BET £10 GET A FREE £30 BET
However, a clause in the France international's new contract saw his buy-out clause doubled to £170m for the duration of the summer transfer window.
Real Madrid are also keen, but he is unlikely to make the move due to the rivalry between the two sides.