Josep Maria Bartomeu: “Griezmann interests us”

FC Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu spoke to the media on Friday afternoon, ahead of the official presentation of Frenkie De Jong. He addressed several matters involving the club, including the possibility of Barça signing Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann, saying that "On Thursday there was a meeting between FC Barcelona CEO Òscar Grau, and Atletico Madrid CEO Àngel Gil Marín. He is a player who interests us.”

He also spoke about Jordi Mestre, the former sporting vicepresident who left the role on Wednesday, saying: "First of all, I would like to thank Jordi Mestre for his work at the club over the past 9 years. A few days ago, over dinner, he informed me of his resignation due to disagreements with the rest of the sporting area, and fatigue accumulated over his time at the club. I understand his motives perfectly and I will be the one who takes on his responsibilities. I did so 5 years ago, I know the market fully and I like the role."

Sporting vicepresident

“I will give myself a few days to talk with the directors in charge of youth football, and the coaches, and I will reflect and evaluate all of the questions that need to be attended."

Víctor Valdés

“He called me a few days ago and told me that it was time to come home. I have been following his work as a coach, and he's been doing very well. We would be delighted to have him back, and in the coming days we will see what role we can offer him."

Messi

“I want to put an end to the myth. Messi does not ask for players. What the players do want is to have a good team."

Neymar Jr

“We know that Neymar Jr wants to leave PSG, and we also know that PSG don't want him to go.”

Ernesto Valverde

“He has a contract with us and I have never asked the board if they want him to continue or not."

De Ligt

“A few months ago I said that I know where he will play, and I still say that I know where he will play this season. I can't say any more than that."

Coutinho and Dembélé

“Last season we made a big commitment with these two players. They are very important to us."

“When Dembélé goes onto the pitch, everybody knows that things will happen. He is a player with a lot of talent."

Mirotic

“We are putting together a great basketball team, and what I can say is that his signing is in an advanced stage, but it is still not done."