Chelsea ready to do battle with Man Utd for Antoine Griezmann

Premier League leaders Chelsea are prepared to offer stiff competition to Manchester United in the pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann.

The France international has repeatedly insisted that he would like to remain in Madrid, but his current contract status is such that he could be sold at his minimum release clause.

Griezmann currently has a £86m escape clause in his existing deal inked last summer, and this has in particular attracted interest from United.

According to The Sun, the Blues are keeping a close watch on the player's situation and could jump forward for his services during the summer transfer window.

Griezmann is understood to have the minimal ambition of participating in the Champions League, and this is something the Blues could offer in advance in comparison to United.

United are currently in a tough fight to finish in the top-four positions, but they could still qualify for the elite competition by lifting the Europa League this campaign.

Griezmann has managed to net 22 goals across all competitions for Atletico Madrid, who have had a below-par season by their standards this term.