Simeone won't stand in Griezmann's way amid United's reported interest

Considering Antoine Griezmann's current form, Atletico Madrid manager expected the world's biggest clubs to inquire about the young forward.

The France international has been at the centre of transfer talks for the better part of two years after his dazzling displays in front of goal with Ateltico Madrid, where he's led the club in scoring each season since his arrival from Real Sociedad in 2014.

After being linked with Griezmann last summer, Manchester United has emerged once again as a possible destination, with Jack Austin of the Independent reporting that the Premier League side is willing to trigger the €100-million buyout clause in his Altetico contract during the summer transfer window.

Simeone, however, insists he won't put up a fight to block Griezmann's departure.

"I don't tie anybody down," Simeone admitted to reporters, according to Adriana Garcia of ESPN FC. "I simply work in order to continue getting better for the good of the club.

"He (Griezmann) is in an extraordinary moment, he is working well, he has got back on the scoresheet. He is currently in great form and it's normal that the top clubs in the world want him.

"I'm not surprised that those that can afford him are seeking him."

The 25-year-old previously claimed he would only consider leaving the Spanish side if Simeone was no longer manning the Atleti touchline.

But links to United gained steam in November when Griezmann, whose current contract runs until 2021, expressed his desire to play domestic football alongside compatriot Paul Pogba.

Griezmann, who's also drawn interest from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, scored a combined 44 league goals in his first two seasons, with another seven this year to go along with four assists.