Transfer Talk: United prepare to pounce for Griezmann

Manchester United are monitoring Antoine Griezmann in preparation for a possible January bid.

Griezmann, 31, is into the second season of a two-year spell on loan at Atletico Madrid from Barcelona.

But the French World Cup winner has so far been limited to cameo substitute appearances under Diego Simeone this term as the two LaLiga clubs dispute the terms of his contract.

And United could be ready to step in to secure a permanent deal for the diminutive forward as boss Erik ten Hag plots further improvements to his squad.

The Athletic claim the Red Devils made an unsuccessful approach in the summer and are now keeping a close eye on the situation, along with a number of other Premier League clubs.

Ten Hag has overseen five wins from United’s last six games, with Thursday night’s Europa League victory at FC Sheriff their most recent success.

But the Dutch coach is keen to add more quality in attacking areas, to mount a Premier League title challenge next term.

Barca meanwhile are undergoing a period of major change too and see Griezmann as surplus to requirements as boss Xavi builds a team of young talent around talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski.

Lewandowski bagged a brace in Barca’s 3-0 win over Elche on Saturday, taking his tally to 11 goals from his last seven games.

In other news

Barcelona are hoping to acquire Chelsea midfielder Jorginho on a free transfer next summer to replace 34-year-old Sergio Busquets, according to The Sun.

The same outlet claim Manchester City will challenge Tottenham, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid to the signing of Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar.

Italian media report Arsenal, Liverpool and Sevilla are all interested in Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk.