Antoine Griezmann’s proposed move to Manchester United moves a step closer following success in Stockholm

Antoine Griezmann’s possible transfer to Manchester United moved a step closer after their Europa League triumph.

The Atletico Madrid striker said last week his chances of a move to Old Trafford were “6/10” but they now appear better.

It is not so much an issue of finances but a question of status and United can now offer the carrot of Champions League football to the Frenchman.

United need a forward, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s future uncertain as he recovers from a cruciate ligament and Wayne Rooney effectively confirming he is leaving.

Last night’s win on an emotional night, following the attack that killed 22 people at Manchester Arena on Monday, came courtesy of goals from Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

It was United’s second major trophy of the season after they won the EFL Cup, although Jose Mourinho was also counting the Community Shield as he urged his players to hold up three fingers during their celebrations on the pitch.

Mourinho spoke of having won in a “humble” way and dismissed what he described as the “poets”. He referred to the poets “winning every game”, the implication being he was talking about his critics.

It was a bracing assertion of his own beliefs and one he may have to temper. United have assumptions about style and conduct.

Mourinho loves to play the underdog but that outlook is preposterous when you are in charge of the richest club in the world.