Reports: Atletico Madrid want Premier League star to replace Antoine Griezmann
What's the rumour?
According to reports from Mirror, Atletico Madrid are eyeing a move for Leicester City star Jamie Vardy this summer. The club wants the Englishman to replace Antoine Griezmann who is likely to leave the club this summer.
In case you didn't know...
Jamie Vardy's rise to stardom was extraordinary, to say the least. He was Leicester City's main man when they miraculously won the Premier League in 2016 and has evolved to be one of the best forwards in the game.
He has played 234 games for The Foxes, scoring 89 goals. He has also won 21 caps for the England national team and is expected to play a big part in the FIFA World Cup as well.
His current contract with Leicester runs out only in 2020.
The heart of the matter
Throughout the season, Antoine Griezmann has been linked with a move away from the club and as we near the end of the season, the rumours have intensified. He played a pivotal rule in their UEFA Europa League success this season but is widely expected to leave the club this summer.
Thus, Atletico and Diego Simeone are looking at possible replacements for the Frenchman and have identified Vardy as a possible option. He is at valued at £16 million as per the report but Leicester are sure to demand more money if they do decide to sell him.
Vardy has been in excellent form this season as well, scoring 23 goals in all competitions.
Rumour rating/probability - 5/10
Not many credible sources are reporting the same at the moment and a move is very far away from being agreed upon.
Video: Vardy in action for Leicester this season
Author's take
We rarely see English players move abroad and it may be wise for Atletico to search for other alternatives as neither the player nor the club may be interested in a move. However, if a substantial offer comes in and Leicester do agree to sell the player, expect him to fill Griezmann's void effortlessly and make his mark in Spain.