Chelsea need to increase bid for Atletico Madrid forward

The Blues are nearly a reported £30million off Madrid’s valuation for Antoine Griezmann

The France international has just signed a new contract increasing his buy-out clause to £50million, according to Spanish publication AS.

Griezmann has been linked with a move to Chelsea after owner Roman Abramovich reportedly cleared Jose Mourinho to sign the Madrid attacker, according to the Daily Star.

However, the 24-year-old looks likely to remain at the Vicente Calderon as Chelsea will go as high as £21million which is thought to be significantly lower than Madrid’s asking price.

Griezmann, joined Atletico Madrid last year from Real Sociedad for a reported 30million euros, on a six-year deal.

He played 37 games during his first season, netting 22 goals, one of which came in an emphatic 4-0 victory against city rivals, Real Madrid.

Chelsea prepare record bid for Stones

Everton defender John Stones has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge all summer – Chelsea have already seen two bids of £20million and £25million rejected.

Mourinho is believed to be see the England international as John Terry’s long-term successor and is reportedly planning on making an offer thought to be worth around £40million.

The Portugese coach will also be keen to beat Manchester United in signing the Toffees defender – United have been linked with the centre-back after reportedly failing to sign Nicolas Otamendi.

The current record is held by Manchester City who spent £32million to bring France international Eliaquim Mangala from Porto last August.

Written by Jack Wynne – @JackRobertWynne