After last summer’s swap deal between Arthur Melo and Miralem Pjanic, Barcelona’s swap deal of the summer involves Antoine Griezmann and Saul Niguez.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the situation, saying both clubs have given the green light to the switch. The two clubs are in advanced talks to make the deal a reality and are reportedly negotiating about the price tag. Barcelona wants Saul, along with €15 million as they send Antoine Griezmann back to Atletico Madrid.
Saul has asked to leave Atletico Madrid, so the Rojiblancos are letting go of a wantaway player this summer. However, Saul has been at Atletico Madrid since he was 13 and his absence will surely be felt in the Spanish capital since he has been such a core member of the squad over the past few years. But the situation has changed, and the club must adapt to it to make the most out of the opportunity.
Griezmann, on the other hand, has not been well received by the fans since he arrived at Barcelona. He also hasn’t hit the heights he once hit at Atletico Madrid. With Diego Simeone keen on working with the France international again, he could line up a deadly attack which features Luis Suarez and Griezmann operating side by side since El Cholo plays a 4-4-2.
Barcelona will receive a brilliant replacement for Gini Wijnaldum, who was close to signing with them but signed for PSG instead. Atletico have already signed Rodrigo de Paul from Udinese as the replacement for Saul, and he could embark on a new adventure at Camp Nou as well. By the looks of things, both clubs are winning.
