Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City: MLS Blockbuster Rumors Hit Pause as Atlético Madrid Chases Copa del Rey Glory
The 2026 MLS primary transfer window — closing March 26 — has delivered its share of high-profile speculation, but few stories have generated as much buzz as the prolonged pursuit of Antoine Griezmann by Orlando City. For weeks, the Florida club appeared on the verge of landing one of Europe's most decorated attackers as a Designated Player. Now, with Atlético Madrid advancing deep into cup competitions, the French World Cup winner has hit the brakes on any immediate MLS switch.
Advanced Talks Turn to Hold: The Copa del Rey Factor
Reports from late February confirmed Orlando City was in advanced discussions with Atlético Madrid over Griezmann for their remaining Designated Player slot. The 34-year-old — under contract until 2027 but long linked with a North American move — emerged as Orlando's top target.
Orlando reportedly tabled a lucrative offer (estimated €10-15 million gross annually), conditional on Griezmann joining before the March 26 deadline. Everything changed after Atlético Madrid's dramatic Copa del Rey semifinal victory over Barcelona, securing their place in the April 18 final at Estadio La Cartuja. Griezmann has paused the MLS move, prioritizing silverware with his long-time club.
What Orlando City Offered — and Why Griezmann Said No (For Now)
The package was ambitious: a Designated Player contract with massive financial upside, lifestyle appeal, and a starring role in a rising Eastern Conference side. Yet the timing proved decisive, leaving mid-season would mean missing Atlético's Copa del Rey final and remaining Champions League push.
Diego Simeone and club leadership reportedly worked to convince Griezmann to stay, emphasizing his legacy and opportunity for one last triumphant run in Spain.
Summer Window Outlook: Free Transfer Possibility?
With the primary window closing soon and no deal imminent, attention shifts to the summer secondary window (opening July). Orlando City has signaled willingness to wait until June if necessary, even exploring a free transfer scenario if Griezmann's contract situation evolves.
The saga underscores MLS clubs' growing pull on aging European stars — and the challenges of prying them away mid-campaign when trophies are still on the line. Orlando City continues monitoring, but the immediate dream of Griezmann in purple this spring appears deferred.