As Atlético Madrid plan for the possible exit of Antoine Griezmann to MLS, a surprise replacement is being lined up
As speculation continues to swirl around the subject of Antoine Griezmann’s future, Atlético Madrid are preparing for all eventualities. One name on the list of potential replacements is Fábio Silva, the Portuguese forward currently plying his trade in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund.
The link may come as something of a surprise to many, given his inability to consolidate himself at Wolves and his underwhelming loan spell at Rangers in 2023/24. A glance at his stats in Dortmund also reveals he has scored just twice in 29 appearances this campaign.
Las Palmas form the key to Atleti interest
However, Atlético Madrid were able to take a closer look at Silva last season when he impressed on loan in LaLiga with Las Palmas. Although the Canarian side got relegated, he contributed 10 goals and three assists in 25 appearances, earning his first call-up to the Portugal squad in the process.
It was also that form that prompted Dortmund to pay Wolves 22.5 million euros for his services. Given his lack of goals and the fact he has only started five Bundesliga games this season, the German side would probably be quite happy to make their money back should Atleti decide to make a move for the attacker.
Griezmann could still stay at Atlético
Of course, in the short term, and from Atlético Madrid’s point of view, the best replacement for Griezmann is Griezmann himself. Despite strong speculation, the club are by no means resigned to losing French international.
How did Antoine Griezmann managed to pull this off? Makes no sense to me 😱🔥pic.twitter.com/UVo5uWXXMf https://t.co/512gKVlRJg
— MP𖤐 (@MagicalPep) February 25, 2026
Atleti sporting director Mateu Alemany has played down the rumours that the 34-year-old could be set for an imminent departure to MLS.
“That issue is speculation. Antoine has two more seasons, he is focused on what is coming and his performance is very good,” Alemany said while at the Champions League draw in Nyon.
“We think about him helping us in what is coming. The rest is speculation.”
Simeone calls for Griezmann to be given time and space
Meanwhile, when asked about the Frenchman’s future at the press conference ahead of Saturday’s 0-1 win over Real Oviedo, Atleti head coach Diego Simeone called for the player to be given time and space to make his decision.
“I understand your question, I was quite clear the other day, I’m focused on tomorrow’s game and how important Antoine is to us,” said Simeone.
“I’m not going to talk about a subject where we don’t know what will happen, nor repeat how important Antoine is to us.
“I’ll say it again, we’re talking with Antoine and we shouldn’t put pressure on him or say too much. Antoine already knows how important he is to us and we’re focused on the great things that are coming up: Oviedo, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Tottenham… there’s no room for anything else.”
