Atletico Madrid Eyes Barcelona's Ferran Torres Among Griezmann Replacements

Antoine Griezmann's move to MLS club Orlando City has been confirmed, with the veteran forward set to leave Atletico Madrid at the conclusion of the European season. As the 35-year-old prepares to end his successful tenure with Los Colchoneros, the club has initiated its search for a successor.

The challenging task of finding Griezmann's replacement falls to Sporting Director Mateu Alemany. He has reportedly compiled a three-player shortlist, with Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in emerging as the primary target, according to reports from Sport.

Atletico had previously shown interest in Lee during the January transfer window, as they sought a replacement for Giacomo Raspadori, who moved to Atalanta. Although they ultimately signed Ademola Lookman at that time, their interest in the South Korean international persists, and he is expected to have opportunities to return to La Liga this summer.

Greenwood and Ferran Torres Also Considered

Mason Greenwood is another name on Atleti's list. Club management has been impressed by his performances at Marseille. The ex-Getafe winger is valued for his sharp finishing, pace, and prior experience in La Liga, attributes that could make him a potent attacking presence after Griezmann's departure.

Completing the shortlist is Ferran Torres, a player Mateu Alemany admires greatly, having signed him for Barcelona during his time as sporting director in 2022. Barcelona is reportedly becoming more receptive to offloading the former Manchester City forward, as they aim to keep Robert Lewandowski and potentially bring in a new striker – with Atletico's Julian Alvarez rumored as a possibility.

This summer looks set to be a busy one for Atleti, as they strive to narrow the gap between themselves and La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid. Griezmann's successor will face considerable expectations, placing significant pressure on Alemany to make the optimal choice.