Barcelona planning to swap Antoine Griezmann for Saul Niguez?

Antoine Griezmann’s future at Barcelona appears uncertain due to the club’s ongoing financial problems, and the latest update suggests Barca are thinking about a swap deal with Atletico Madrid.

Mundo Deportivo report that Griezmann could return to the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium this summer with midfielder Saul Niguez heading in the opposite direction. The midfielder is expected to leave Atletico but it’s not clear where he’ll end up.

Liverpool are apparently interested in Saul and have made an offer of €40 million which Atletico think is insufficient. A higher bid is needed for a player under contract until 2026 and with a release clause set at €150m.

Meanwhile, Barca still want a midfielder after missing out on Georginio Wijnaldum which is where Saul comes in. Coach Ronald Koeman is said to be willing to let Griezmann leave if his departure ensures Lionel Messi stays.

The report acknowledges that such a deal “would not be easy” but reckons the two clubs “have been studying it for a long time” and feel it could be a win-win situation for all involved.

Diego Simeone and Enrique Cerezo would love to have Griezmann back, while Barca could bring in a midfielder, reduce the wage bill and hopefully then go on and renew Messi’s contract too.