Chelsea have hit a stumbling block in their attempts to sign Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann in the shape of manager Diego Simeone, reports the Daily Express.
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The Argentine is apparently determined to stop the Blues poaching another of his stars. Both Diego Costa and Filipe Luis went to Stamford Bridge from the Vicente Calderon last summer, and the London club also brought Thibaut Courtois back from a loan period with the Rojiblancos.
To this end the Spanish side have already put a £43 million release clause in the forward’s contract, but this may not be enough to ward off the Premier League champions. If Chelsea pay this fee then it will have to be accepted by Atleti, leaving only contract negotiations with the France international to be agreed.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho has had his interest in the 24-year-old piqued by his great form in his debut season with Atletico. In 53 appearances Griezmann has scored 25 goals, helping the side to qualify for the Champions League through their La Liga position.