Atletico Madrid have raised Antoine Griezmann‘s buyout clause to a club-record figure in an attempt to price out clubs interested in his signature.
Marca have revealed that the France striker, who is said to have put pen-to-paper on a new deal with the La Liga outfit, now has a release-clause of €80million, €15million higher than the €65million agreement written into his previous contract.
The Spanish newspaper state that this is the highest ever buy-out sum that Rojiblancos have etched into a player’s contract, and is therefore representative of Griezmann’s high regard at the Estadio Vicente Calderon.
His age, 24, and potential were key factors in Atleti’s decision to increase the figure, with Marca stating that the club are confident that the former Real Sociedad star is still firmly in the development stage.
SEE MORE:
Chelsea transfer gossip
Chelsea to seal incredible record-breaking £35m deal for INSTANT John Terry replacement
Chelsea to SPEND £83m on trio as Blues splash the cash to get season back on track
The news will come as a blow to Chelsea, as the Daily Star state that the Blues have told the Spanish club that they are willing to make an offer £21million for Griezmann’s signature – which falls significantly short of their valuation.
Chelsea are also said to be open in using Juan Cuadrado as bait in any possible deal.