Three players who could replace Griezmann at Atletico

Griezmann is a wanted man this summer

The transfer saga that looks set to dominate this summer’s headlines looks fairly certain to be the future of Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann who is currently one of the hottest properties in Europe.

Of course Atletico Madrid are still currently under a transfer ban but, should it be overturned – and we’ll find out on April 24, Diego Simeone’s men may be in the market for a top-notch forward to replace the France international. So who might they go for…

The prodigal son – Diego Costa

Diego Costa has already admitted he wanted to return to Atletico Madrid last summer claiming “he did everything” to force through a move.

However, it didn’t happen and the Spain international has remained at Stamford Bridge where he looks set to pick up his second Premier League winners’ medal.

Costa has enjoyed a great season scoring 17 goals, he’s 16/1 to finish the campaign as the Premier League’s top goalscorer, but the speculation surrounding his future continues to whirl, particularly in light of his recent comments: “I am happy at Chelsea, I am not necessarily saying that I am happy with my life in London”.

Not content with being seven points clear at the top of the table the Blues are already being linked with Paulo Dybala, Alexis Sanchez and just about every top striker in the world and it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise to see Costa leave at the end of the season.

Club president Enrique Cerez has already admitted he would “love” to see Costa back at the club and it doesn’t take too much imagination to see the spiky striker heading back there this summer.

The latest hotshot – Alexandre Lacazette

The Lyon striker has enjoyed a phenomenal season in France scoring 30 goals in all competitions to attract attention from all the top clubs. Both club and player have made it pretty clear he will leave this summer and Atletico would prove an attractive proposition.

Some outlets have already jumped the gun and claimed Lacazette has a verbal agreement to join Diego Simeone’s men although they will not be the only club chasing his signature, with Arsenal in particular frequently linked with the striker.

At 25 the time is right for Lacazette to try and prove himself at one of Europe’s top teams and he will may well be tempted to move to Atleti where he would link up with international team-mate Kevin Gameiro.

The dream – Alexis Sanchez

Alexis Sanchez is another player who will be huge demand this summer if, as seems likely, he can be prised away from Arsenal.

The Chilean has made his frustrations at the Gunners’ inability to sustain a title challenge quite clear, which has not gone unnoticed at Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United who are all reportedly ready to pile the misery on Arsenal by tempting him away.

Arsenal would of course be far more willing to sell him abroad which could work in Atleti’s favour, as could his experience of La Liga.

However, although the sale of Griezmann will bring in huge funds, Atleti may still struggle to keep up with the likes of both Manchester clubs when it comes to financial a deal for Sanchez.