Manchester United ahead of Chelsea and Real Madrid in the race to sign Antoine Griezmann, agent confirms

Manchester United and Real Madrid have been given hopes of signing Antoine Griezmann this summer, but they will have to meet his €100m (£84.8m, $108.6m) release clause to make it happen as the striker is keen on staying with Atletico Madrid.

The France international has stated on numerous occasions that he is keen to remain with the Spanish capital club beyond this summer, despite continually being linked with a move away. Old Trafford is being touted as his potential destination but city rivals Real are also keen on taking him to the Santiago Bernabeu.

The 26-year-old forward's agent Eric Olhats has confirmed that five clubs – United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Real and Barcelona - are in the running for his signature. He also installed the Red Devils as the favourites, since they made their approach ahead of other interested suitors.

"We're at the stage of gathering information from clubs who have a concrete interest," Olhats told French TV show Telefoot, as quoted by Sky Sports.

"There is an unavoidable €100m clause so that restricts the number of candidates. You have United, City, Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

"United were the first to come and see us and the most concrete in their wishes," he added.

Griezmann has scored over 20 or more goals in his last four seasons and has played a key role for Atletico in the last two campaigns. He played a crucial role in helping them to the Champions League final last season, and has again been instrumental in their run to the last four this year.

Jose Mourinho is keen to bolster his forward line ahead of next season, and United top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic's recent injury, which is likely to sideline the Swede until 2018, could strengthen his resolve to bring in a proven goal scorer in the summer. The Red Devils will hold an advantage over Real, as Giezmann has previously ruled out a move to Atletico's fiercest rivals owing to his loyalty to his current employers.