Former Man Utd star says Griezmann transfer ‘doesn’t make sense’ as he identifies two stars Sir Jim Ratcliffe knows well
MANCHESTER UNITED have been told to avoid signing Antoine Griezmann by a former player.
The Frenchman has been strongly linked with a January move to Old Trafford in recent days.
United are reportedly ready to trigger his £21.9million release clause and triple his current wages to around £350,000-per-week.
Talks are also said to have been held with the Atletico Madrid forward’s representatives.
However, ex-United defender Mikael Silvestre has warned his old side against signing the 32-year-old.
“It’s never too late for a player to make a big move,” he told bettingexpert.com.
“But I think Antoine Griezmann would be a second Bruno Fernandes or Eriksen, as Griezmann doesn´t play as a forward anymore.
“He has been playing deeper recently, so it doesn’t make any sense for Man United to add him to the squad.
“Man United has enough quality in that position, so this wouldn’t be the first move they would make. I don´t think such a move would make sense.”
Griezmann has scored 12 goals in 16 appearances for Atletico so far this season.
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Silvestre has instead urged United to bolster their defence and midfield with two players Sir Jim Ratcliffe knows well.
The British billionaire is set to take over football operations at Old Trafford once his acquisition of a 25 per cent stake is finalised.
Ratcliffe’s INEOS group already own French side Nice, who signed both Khephren Thuram and Jean-Clair Todibo under his ownership.
Both players would be solid additions for Erik ten Hag according to Silvestre.
He added: “Thuram and Todibo definitely have the level to play for Man Utd. And I’m sure they’re on the radar and they will be scrutinised.
“They will probably be put forward because it will be an easy and sensible transition and will make sense for INEOS to get the best scouting reports on these two players specifically.
“They’re quality players. Both French internationals. Todibo is having a very good season. Khephren Thuram, a little bit less this season compared to last but still a quality midfielder.”
The duo have made a combined 262 appearances for Nice and are both key men for the Ligue 1 side.
Thuram, who is out of contract in 2025, was previously linked with Liverpool in the summer.
Meanwhile, United are already understood to be targeting centre-back Todibo.
The Red Devils are reportedly lining up a £44million move for the former Barcelona man.
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