Griezmann in Advanced Talks with Orlando City for MLS Move

Antoine Griezmann, the 34-year-old French forward and all-time leading scorer for Atletico Madrid, is in advanced talks with Major League Soccer club Orlando City SC about a potential move to the United States, according to sources close to the negotiations.

The discussions, which have progressed to the stage of personal terms between Griezmann and Orlando, come as the MLS primary transfer window remains open until March 26. Orlando holds the French player's discovery rights within the league, granting the club priority to negotiate any deal ahead of other interested teams. While three other MLS clubs have expressed interest, Orlando's position gives it the right of first refusal. No agreement has been finalized, and talks between Orlando and Atletico Madrid over a possible transfer fee have not yet begun. Sources indicate that Atletico would likely respect Griezmann's wishes if he decides to leave.

Griezmann, who extended his contract with Atletico last summer through June 2027, has long expressed admiration for American sports leagues, including the NBA and NFL, and a desire to play in MLS before retiring. The 2018 World Cup winner with France, where he scored 44 goals in 137...