Barcelona deny reports of an agreement for Griezmann's arrival

Barcelona have been forced to deny reports in Spain that a deal is in place for Antoine Griezmann to join the club in the summer, releasing an announcement via their official website.

The Catalans have long been credited with an interest in the Frenchman and are thought to be at the front of a queue involving Manchester United for his services.

The 26-year-old only extended his contract at Atletico last summer, with four years still remaining on that deal, but news has been circulated that he will leave for Barcelona come the end of the season.

The Spanish league leaders have vehemently denied such claims amidst fears of a backlash from the Madrid outfit, releasing the following statement.

“FC Barcelona strongly denies the information that has appeared over the course of the last few hours in different media regarding Atlético Madrid player, Antoine Griezmann, and an alleged deal with our club.”

“FC Barcelona expresses its objections in the face of these events and reiterates its full respect for the institution of Atlético Madrid.”

Griezmann has endured a difficult season in the capital to now, with just five goals in 16 league appearances in what looks certain to be his least prolific Atleti since signing in 2014.