Report: United plans to activate Griezmann's £85M release clause
Manchester United has stepped up its pursuit of Atletico Madrid superstar Antoine Griezmann.
The Red Devils have plans to pay the Frenchman's £85-million release clause, reports The Telegraph's James Ducker, leaving negotiations with Griezmann as their primary objective.
The rainy weather in Manchester has concerned the 26-year-old, but more of an obstacle than the precipitation in northern England is his attachment to Atletico manager Diego Simeone.
If the Argentinian decides to remain in place beyond June 2018 - when his contract expires - Ducker suggests Griezmann could rethink his situation.
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Likewise, if United fails to qualify for next season's Champions League, a move to Old Trafford could fall apart.
Paul Pogba - whose £89-million transfer to United last year shattered the world record - has reportedly sent "playful" text messages in an attempt lure his close friend.
Intermediaries have also been working to gauge Griezmann's interest, Ducker adds, but the player's relationship with the La Liga club remains the biggest variable.
"I am always asked the same question and I am pretty sick of it, but like I always say, I am very happy here," Griezmann said earlier this month. "I have learned a lot over time, I have the best teammates and a top coach. So I am doing very well here and there is no reason to go."
Griezmann has recovered from a slow start to the campaign, registering 14 goals and seven assists through 27 league matches.