Future stars - Antoine Griezmann

Griezmann in a buoyant mood

Despite being a part of the Real Sociedad squad for some time now, Antoine Griezmann has really pushed on in the last year or so.  Making bigger clubs sit up and take note, with Arsenal one of the clubs most recently linked with a late January move for the youngster.

It has not been an easy road for the 20-year-old, being rejected by several clubs after trials due to size.  How many times have we heard that?  However, after one such trial Griezmann drew admiring glances from several clubs.  It was Real Sociedad who won the race though, where he has gone from strength to strength.

After progressing through the youth ranks, it was prior to the 2009/10 season when he was given a chance to impress in pre-season.  It was't long before a senior debut came his way, appearing as a second half substitute in a Copa Del Rey match against Rayo Vallecano.

He has not looked back from here, being a regular member of the squad and could perhaps be another gem unearthed by the San Sebastian based side.  It would be no suprise to see Premier League sides make a move for Griezmann in the future, with truly exciting wingers not commonplace on these shores.  It is afterall his pace and skill that have put him on the map.

In 2010 a first appearance for France under-19s came about, in addition to a new contract at club level that reportedly has a buy out clause of around €30 million.  After flicking between the under-19, 20 and 21 sides, Griezmann has now established himself as a regular member of the latter.

Currently nearing a century of appearance at club level, it wouldn't be a suprise if we seen the talented youngster make a move sooner rather than later.