When Inter and Juventus tried to sign Atletico Madrid star Griezmann

Antoine Griezmann is gearing up for a crucial Champions League tie against Inter, but once upon a time he could’ve worn the Nerazzurri shirt or the one of their rivals Juventus.

The 32-year-old French forward has continued to shine for Atletico Madrid in his second spell in the capital, scoring 18 goals and providing seven assists in 35 games across all competitions this term. His five Champions League goals were key in securing a first-place finish in Group E.

Griezmann and Atletico are ready to travel to the Lombardy capital to face Inter in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie, scheduled for 20.00 UK time on Tuesday evening. The French star failed to net during his last trip to Italy back in September in the draw with Lazio.

As detailed by TMW, when Griezmann was looking to leave Barcelona in the summer of 2021, he was open to a move to Serie A. The two most serious suitors were Inter and Juventus, who both seriously explored a move for the 2018 World Cup winner.

Ultimately, neither had the resources to complete a deal; the Frenchman wasn’t willing to more than halve his salary to make the move and neither club could find an agreement with Barcelona, who weren’t interested in any player exchanges.