Madrid, Feb 28 (NationPress) The Director of Sports for Atletico Madrid, Mateu Alemany, has firmly dismissed rumors concerning Antoine Griezmann's potential transfer to MLS club Orlando City. The French striker, who is approaching his 35th birthday in March, reportedly has a lucrative contract on the table from the U.S. team, with L'Equipe indicating that an agreement is nearly finalized, according to reports from Xinhua.

However, given that the MLS transfer window closes on March 26, should Griezmann, who has netted 202 goals in 445 matches for Atletico, wish to depart, he must do so two months prior to the conclusion of the Spanish season. At that point, his team could still be competing in the Champions League and has a chance to participate in the Copa del Rey final, provided they maintain their 4-0 semifinal lead against FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou next Tuesday.

When questioned about Griezmann's future after the Champions League draw, Alemany stated that the inquiry was merely speculation. He remarked, "Antoine has two more years remaining on his contract and is concentrating on upcoming challenges. His performance has been impressive, and we believe he can contribute significantly moving forward."

In other news, Raul Asencio, a central defender for Real Madrid, was diagnosed with a cervical strain after a serious fall during his team’s 2-1 victory against Benfica in the Champions League.

Asencio fell awkwardly after colliding with teammate Eduardo Camavinga in the 77th minute and was taken off the field on a stretcher, wearing a neck brace, before being transported to the hospital for evaluation.

Despite Asencio’s early social media post indicating the incident was 'just a scare,' Real Madrid confirmed his injury on their official website on Friday.

The statement read, "Following tests conducted by the Real Madrid Medical Services, Raul Asencio has been diagnosed with a cervical strain." The report did not specify the expected duration of his absence but noted that his return is "awaiting evolution."

This injury almost certainly rules Asencio out for the upcoming La Liga match against Getafe and casts doubt on his availability for the following weekend's match against Celta Vigo and the first leg of the last-16 tie in the Champions League at home against Manchester City on March 10.

With Eder Militao already sidelined for an extended period, Asencio's injury will compel Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa to select either David Alaba or Aurelien Tchouameni as a replacement. However, he may be reluctant to shift Tchouameni back to defense given his recent strong performances in midfield.