Goal Writes: BARCELONA ISSUE STATEMENT DENYING SECRET PLOT TO SIGN GRIEZMANN IN SUMMER

he Catalan side reacted to rumours they have secured the signing of the France international without his current club's permission
Barcelona have denied reports that they have already reached an agreement to sign Antoine Griezmann behind the backs of Atletico Madrid.

Speculation surrounding the forward's future continues to grow as Spanish outlet Sport reported on Saturday that the France international has reached an agreement with the Catalan side that will see him move to Camp Nou at the end of the season.

The deal is said to include financial penalties should either side back out before it goes through, as Griezmann also being linked to teams in the Premier League.
Barca have already caused a stir with Atletico over their pursuit of Griezmann, as the Madrid club filed a complaint to FIFA to warn them off in December.

And the Catalan side have moved to calm suggestions that they have entered a secret pact with the 26-year-old.

"FC Barcelona denies reports that have appeared in recent hours in various media referring to Atletico Madrid player Antoine Griezmann, alleging links to our club," the statement read. FC Barcelona expresses discomfort in the face of these events and reiterates its respect for the institution of the Atletico Madrid."

Griezmann, who has scored eight goals in 24 appearances in all competitions this season, is contracted to Atleti until June 2022.

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