Abidal's first objective at Barcelona is to tie down Griezmann
Abidal has a few days to convince the Atletico forward to sign
Eric Abidal's first objective as Barcelona's sporting director will be to close the signing of his compatriot Antoine Griezmann, who is weighing up whether to continue with Atletico Madrid or accept an offer to move to Camp Nou.
Abidal, who will take over from Robert Fernandez, will try to convince Griezmann, currently with the French national team preparing for the World Cup, of the advantages of Barça's offer.
Griezmann's future remains unsolved, although he has promised to announce his plans before the World Cup. In recent days there have been reports he will remain in Madrid, but Barça haven't given up on him.
The role of Abidal could be decisive in convincing him, despite the fact Atletico's offer of a new contract is higher than anything Barça can offer.
"I don't know if the current Barça side need Griezmann, the important thing is the future and having the best players in your team. To have a player like Griezmann in your team is always an advantage," Abidal said a few weeks ago.
DRESSING ROOM LINK
Abidal's role will also be important when it comes to linking the dressing room and the boardroom, a role which in recent months has been forgotten.
In addition, Abidal could also help the French players in the dressing room feel more comfortable: Dembele, Umtiti and Digne, but also Griezmann and Lenglet, if they end up signing for Barça this summer.
