Manchester United have long been tipped to lure Griezmann away from Atletico Madrid, with interest in the World Cup winner dating back to 2017.
Back then, the Red Devils were confident of signing the France international having secured Champions League football via the Europa league.
Manchester United ultimately missed out on Griezmann, though, with the player choosing to stay loyal to Atletico.
His love affair with Diego Simeone’s side is expected to come to an end this summer, with the player confirming he would be on the move.
“After talking with Cholo [Diego Simeone], Miguel Angel and the people from the offices, I wanted to talk to the fans who have given me a lot of love,” he said.
“I have decided to leave, see other things, have other challenges and with great difficulty, this is what I feel and I need.
“It’s been five great years where I’ve won my first important trophies with a club. It’s been a very important stage.
“I have enjoyed a lot, I have left everything in the field, I have tried to behave well, I have tried to give joy to the people who have come to the Metropolitano and also away from home, and I only have gratitude for all of you.”
Barcelona have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Griezmann.
But, now, the Independent claim members of Europe’s elite are expecting United to win the race for the forward instead.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could lose one forward in the form of Romelu Lukaku.
And that means Griezmann could, finally, make the move to the Premier League as a replacement for the Belgian hitman.
Meanwhile, speaking last year, Griezmann’s former agent lifted the lid on the player’s failed move to Old Trafford two years ago.
“Griezmann didn’t feel able to leave Atletico,” Eric Olhats was quoted in the Independent.
“He’s been integral to them and has shown his commitment to the club at a time when they couldn’t sign players.
“Without the Fifa sanctions he would have gone.”