Atletico Madrid have reported Barcelona to FIFA over an alleged illegal approach of striker Antoine Griezmann.

The Catalans’ pursuit of the French forward has become increasingly public, with director Guillermo Amor admitting in a recent interview that contact had been made with the player.

And that has stung Atleti into action as the Rojiblancos bid to hold on to their star man.

“If Bartomeu met with Griezmann’s family as the newspapers say, then there may well have been an approach,” Amor said.

Atletico told Reuters: “Atletico Madrid have presented a complaint about Barcelona for repeated contact between Barcelona, the player and his people.

“Griezmann has a long contract and this cannot be permitted, while the club also considers it could affect the competition [La Liga] in which Barcelona are currently top and Atletico are second.

Manchester United are also interested in trying to lure Griezmann to Old Trafford, but it is Barca who are seemingly in the box seat in the race for the 26-year-old.