It seemed set to be the biggest deal of the summer transfer window.
In the eyes of many Manchester United fans, the arrival of Antoine Griezmann at Old Trafford was simply a matter of time.
His agent had suggested the move was on the cards. The Frenchman had himself said the chances of him joining the Red Devils were 6/10… and that was before Jose Mourinho's won the Europa League, thus catapulting themselves into next season's Champions League.
As far as many supporters were convinced, United simply had to pay Atletico Madrid a sizeable transfer fee and the deal would be done.
Unfortunately for those supporters, Griezmann has now confirmed that he is staying at Atletico… which seems to suggest the deal is dead.
Griezmann told French TV show Telefoot: “I have said all season I have said that I felt good and I wanted to stay. Now the transfer embargo has been imposed.
"With the directors of the club, we have decided to stay. There is still a beautiful season to be done and we hope to get some new signings in January.
"It is a difficult moment for the club, for the players, and it would not be right to leave now. I have spoken with the directors.
So, how have Man United fans taken the news that Griezmann will NOT be signing for their club?
In fairness, some have been calm, considered and quite thoughtful in their reaction:
However, there have plenty more who have chosen to take a slightly different stance.
Is anyone really buying the idea that United will be better off WITHOUT one of the finest forwards in European football?
Because that appears to be what these angry Red Devils want you to believe…