Antoine Griezmann casts huge doubts over his desire to join Manchester United

Antoine Griezmann appears to have handed Manchester United a major blow after admitting he has ‘a lot of doubts’ about making a move to England’s Premier League next summer.

Yahoo Sport UK broke the story earlier this month that the basis of a deal is in place for United to sign France striker Griezmann from Atletico Madrid, yet any transfer would naturally need to be given the green light by the player and his latest comments suggest he is in no rush to make a move to Manchester.

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United insiders have made no secret of their desire to sign make Griezmann their marquee signing ahead of next season in a deal that could be worth up to £85m.

Yet in an interview with RMC, Griezmann has suggested the scrutiny on his private life in England and the inclement weather could be key reasons why he might prefer to stay in Spain.

“I have a lot of doubts about moving to England,” stated Griezmann. “In England, there are many doubts about my private life. All that is rain, bad weather. I need to be happy outside.

“Who knows how the season will finish. If it finishes badly, maybe I will ask myself the question. For the moment, it is not relevant.”

Real Madrid and Barcelona have been linked with moves for Griezmann next summer, with these comments suggesting he favours playing his football in Spain’s top flight as he compared leagues across Europe.

“Germany, the league does not attract me much,” he added. “France, not for the moment. And England, I have a lot of doubts about my private life. Everything like rain, bad weather… I need to feel happy outside.”

“I like teams that are as intense as in England. Yes, I watch the English championship. The referees let play, the stadiums are always filled, but if I have to choose one, it’s the Spanish championship.”

United manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that he opted not to spend any of his transfer kitty in last month’s window as he is preparing to splash the cash once more next summer.

Yet these comments from Griezmann would appear to suggest the striker will need plenty of convincing to swap the life he is enjoying in Spain for Manchester.