Griezmann's former advisor reveals talks with Barcelona took place in February Barcelona Contact before Juventus tie

Eric Olhats, a former advisor to Antoine Griezmann and the man who discovered the forward, who now works for Atletico Madrid, has revealed that negotiations over a move to Barcelona started in February.

There has been a lengthy dispute between the two clubs over how Griezmann's transfer came about and Olhats has revealed some details.

While speaking to Le Journal du Dimanche, Olhats revealed that Gerard Pique, Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi had all phoned Griezmann over a move to the Camp Nou.

Olhats also admitted that Barcelona themselves contacted Griezmann about a move before Atletico's Champions League tie with Juventus in February.

"The negotiations didn't happen at the right time," Olhats said.

"There was a form of negligence."

Olhats believes that the manner of Griezmann's farewell cost him the send-off he deserved.

"Antoine would have deserved a more dignified exit and it's his and his representatives' fault," he said.

"I understand that you want something new after five seasons at the same club.

"But this didn't stop me believing in his sincere fondness for Atletico.

"Antoine isn't a bad kid, it's simply about not looking back."