World Cup Winner Antoine Griezmann Reportedly Nearing Orlando City Move

The French star is said to be finalizing a deal to join the MLS club this summer.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 5:33am

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World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann is reportedly on the verge of completing a deal to sign for Orlando City, with a view to moving to MLS this summer. The former France captain has been linked with a move to the Florida club for weeks, and has been officially granted permission to travel to the United States to seal a permanent switch.

Why it matters

Griezmann would immediately be among the best players in MLS if the deal goes through. The 34-year-old has had a fine European career, captaining the French national team and starring for Atlético Madrid. His potential arrival could provide a much-needed boost for an Orlando City team that has struggled this season.

The details

Reports first emerged that Griezmann would consider leaving for Orlando City at the end of February, but Atlético Madrid's qualification for the Copa del Rey final reportedly stalled his move as he was eager to end his time at Atlético Madrid with silverware. However, the Frenchman has kept his intent to seal the deal despite the closure of MLS's primary transfer window. Should all go to plan, he will officially move to North America following the end of the European club season.

  • Reports first emerged that Griezmann would consider leaving for Orlando City at the end of February.
  • Atlético Madrid's qualification for the Copa del Rey final reportedly stalled his move in late February.
  • Griezmann has been granted official permission to travel to the United States to seal a permanent switch.

The players

Antoine Griezmann

A 34-year-old French professional footballer who has played as a forward for Atlético Madrid and the French national team, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Orlando City

A professional soccer club based in Orlando, Florida that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS).

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What’s next

Should the deal be finalized, Griezmann will officially move to Orlando City following the end of the European club season.

The takeaway

The potential signing of World Cup winner Antoine Griezmann would be a major coup for Orlando City, providing a much-needed boost to the struggling MLS club and further cementing MLS's status as a destination league for top international talent.