Barcelona Transfer News: Jordi Alba Comments on Antoine Griezmann Rumours

Barcelona defender Jordi Alba has welcomed a potential move for Antoine Griezmann, as the Blaugrana consider an approach for the Atletico Madrid striker.

Speaking to Onda Cero, Alba said the France international has been sensational in recent campaigns and that he would thrive if he arrives at the Camp Nou in January (h/t Bruce Archer of the Daily Express).

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Alba said:

"We are talking about a top player that has been doing really very at Atletico in recent years, any reinforcement would be welcome.

"But I already said that the squad is very good and we are doing very well and we’ll see what happens in the winter transfer market."

Per Archer, Barca coach Ernesto Valverde recently described Griezmann as a "great player," and would not rule out a future move for the 26-year-old.

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Griezmann's form has suffered this term, and the player has not returned the numbers expected of his reputation as one of Europe's most potent stars.

The striker has just five goals and three assists to his name in La Liga this season as he struggles to meet demands.

Mundo Deportivo (h/t Ben Church of MailOnline) reported Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu has met with Griezmann to discuss a move and is ready to sanction an £88 million deal. The player's family were in attendance at the meeting, including Griezmann's sister—who features in his representation.

Here is the player in action:

The combination of Lionel Messi and Griezmann could bear significant fruit for Barca, but the Frenchman would need to recapture lost form to satisfy fans in Catalonia.

However, the Atletico man has the skill set to play for a superclub in Spain and Europe, and he has already proved he can excel against the best teams.

The departure of Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain has left a hole in Valverde's squad, and Griezmann could be a shrewd capture if he rediscovers his shooting boots.

Barca need to revamp their options, and a big-money signing will be expected in January or next summer.