Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are still in talks over the most ambitious deal of the summer yet, which involves Antoine Griezmann and Saul Niguez swapping clubs.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the two clubs are yet to find an agreement for the transfer. However, discussions are still ongoing between the two parties. Atleti president Cerezo was rather cryptic when asked about the swap deal. He told Deportes Cuatro that fans can expect an update in the days to come. However, he also indicated that Griezmann returning to the club would be a “pleasant surprise”.
The Catalonian club are not budging on their demands of wanting cash in addition to Saul moving the other way. The rumoured fee that Barcelona expect for the deal is around €15 million, but it is yet unclear whether Atletico will pay up. The two players are not going to take a wage cut in the transfer.
This ties into the problem Barcelona are facing, since they need to free up space on the wage bill. Given that Griezmann is one of the highest earners at Camp Nou, his salary off the books will help the club immensely. They also have numerous attacking options, old and new, and need a new midfielder.
Saul is familiar with La Liga and offers the perfect profile for Ronald Koeman. English clubs like Chelsea and Liverpool are also interested in the Spaniard, and will keep a track of the deal since they could pounce if the negotiations fall through.
