ORLANDO, Fla. – In a move that will undoubtedly send ripples through Major League Soccer, French international Antoine Griezmann is on the verge of completing a transfer to Orlando City SC this summer. The Atlético Madrid star, a pivotal figure in the 2018 World Cup-winning French squad, has been authorized by his current club to travel to Florida to finalize the details of the agreement, according to multiple sources.
The potential arrival of Griezmann, 35, represents a significant coup for Orlando City, a club looking to rebuild after a challenging start to the 2026 MLS season. Currently 13th in the Eastern Conference with only one win in five games, Orlando City hopes Griezmann can be the catalyst for a turnaround. The club recently parted ways with longtime coach Óscar Pareja, signaling a clear intent to reshape the team’s fortunes.
Griezmann’s deal is expected to run through the 2027-28 season – aligning with MLS’s shift to a calendar more in sync with top European leagues – with an option for an additional year through 2028-29. He is also slated to inherit the No. 7 shirt, a source added. The transfer ends weeks of negotiation, initially aimed at bringing Griezmann to the U.S. Before the close of the primary MLS transfer window this month, but ultimately deferred as Atlético Madrid pursued titles in both the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
The forward has voiced a desire to play in MLS in the past, and has an affinity for American sports and culture, frequently vacationing in the U.S. And attending NBA games. This personal connection, combined with the opportunity to become a central figure in a rebuilding Orlando City side, appears to have swayed his decision.
Griezmann’s arrival would mark a turning point for Orlando City, a franchise that has brought in several high-profile global footballers throughout its history. Still, none possess the pedigree and current standing of the Atlético Madrid legend. He is the all-time leading scorer for Atlético Madrid, with over 200 goals, and has a decorated career that includes a Europa League title, a Supercopa, and a UEFA Super Cup. He was also a Champions League runner-up in the 2015-16 season.
Although Griezmann has enjoyed considerable success at the club level, a Copa del Rey title remains elusive. He will have the opportunity to add to his trophy cabinet before departing for Orlando, as Atlético Madrid is still competing in both the Copa del Rey and the Champions League. They face Barcelona in the Champions League quarterfinals and Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final in April.
The move comes after Griezmann extended his contract with Atlético Madrid last year through June 2027, but the opportunity to embark on a new chapter in his career in MLS proved too appealing. He has continued to contribute significantly to Atlético this season, scoring 13 goals despite not being an automatic starter.
Orlando City holds the “rights of discovery” to Griezmann, a unique MLS mechanism that grants a team priority in negotiating with a player. This gave the Florida club an advantage in securing his signature. The summer transfer window officially opens on July 13, which is when the deal is expected to be finalized.
Griezmann retired from international duty with France in 2024, having earned 137 caps and scored 44 goals for Les Bleus. His decision to step away from the national team may have further facilitated his move to MLS, allowing him to focus solely on club football.
The timing of Griezmann’s arrival could be crucial for Orlando City. The team’s struggles this season have highlighted the need for a significant injection of quality and leadership. Griezmann’s experience and proven goal-scoring ability are expected to address both of those areas.
The transfer also underscores the growing appeal of MLS to established European stars. The league’s increasing competitiveness, improved infrastructure, and expanding global profile are attracting players who previously might not have considered a move to North America.
While the deal is not yet complete, all indications point towards Antoine Griezmann becoming the latest high-profile addition to Major League Soccer. His arrival in Orlando promises to elevate the league’s profile and provide a significant boost to the club’s ambitions.
Next up for Griezmann is continuing his campaign with Atlético Madrid, with crucial matches against Barcelona and Real Sociedad on the horizon. Fans can follow updates on the transfer and Griezmann’s performances through official club channels and major sports news outlets.
