Catalan giants, Barcelona have denied reports that they have secured an agreement with Atletico Madrid forward, Antoine Griezmann for a move that will be finalised in the summer.
The club denied the rumours in a statement released on Saturday.
Spanish paper Sport had reported early on Saturday that the Blaugrana had hatched a move to bring the Frenchman to Camp Nou after the FIFA World Cup.
“The Atletico Madrid forward has agreed to join Barcelona and will be under (coach) Ernesto Valverde’s orders next season,” Sport reported.
Another Spanish paper Mundo Deportivo reported in December that to cement a deal, Barca’s president, Josep Maria Bartomeu had a meal with Griezmann’s family.
But Barcelona have denied such a move exists, saying it would never disrespect Atletico Madrid by agreement terms with Griezmann behind the club.
The statement read, “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.
“FC Barcelona expresses discomfort in the face of these events and reiterates its respect for the institution of the Atletico Madrid.”
In December, Atletico Madrid filed a complaint to world football governing body FIFA over Barcelona’s pursuit of the 26-year-old.