Antoine Griezmann has been targeted by Chelsea in this window and is thought to be high on Jose Mourinho’s transfer wishlist this summer.
Atletico remain firm in their stance of not wanting the player to leave but might have to do without the Frenchman if the Blues trigger his A?45million release clause.
Mohamed Salah, who has failed to establish himself under Mourinho but did very well during his loan spell at Fiorentina last season, is thought to be a bait Mourinho is offering for Simeone, to part with the talented attacker.
The Frenchman, who signed from Real Sociedad for a 30 million, has enjoyed a very fine debut season with Atletico Madrid as he scored 22 league goals for his side last season. Paris Saint Germain were also said to be keen on the Frenchman but it seems that if the player leaves, it will be for London.
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The France international is capable of playing anywhere in the attack- as the main striker, the number 10 role just behind the central forward or as a winger and would be a terrific addition to the already star studded Chelsea team. Mourinho wants to sustain last season’s success in the upcoming campaign and also ensure his side does well in the Champions League and Griezmann could be an important addition to fulfil that quest.
Atletico are expected to reject Chelsea’s attempt of a cash plus player deal for Griezmann. Fiorentina’s new boss Paulo Sousa is keen to hold onto Salah and the Egyptian would also rather stay at the Italian side although he holds the power to veto a move.
One way for Chelsea to get their man, besides pay the A?45m is to include Filipe Luis in the deal. The 29-year-old full-back joined Chelsea from Atletico Madrid last summer and was expected to shine at the club, but he has failed to nail down a starting spot in Mourinhoa s first eleven. He is said to be keen to agree a deal to return to the Vicente Calderon.
Simeone confirmed the club’s interest in getting the 29 year-old back. He said, a Hea s a player that we love a lot as a person and he knows us well. Hea s given so much for the club. Hopefully the transfer works out.”
Perhaps Chelsea can work out an angle here and try to get Griezmann in a cash plus played deal involving Luis. Atletico will obviously want to hold on to their prized asset but if Chelsea make a move too good to be turned down, they might have their man.