After a brilliant season in Germany, Alejandro Grimaldo has decided his next professional step. The Valencian full-back has been one of the pillars of Bayer Leverkusen Bundesliga champion. After analyzing offers, he has chosen a destination that has surprised many.
For weeks, there was speculation about a possible return to the club that trained him, FC Barcelona. There were also contacts from Real Madrid, especially with the possibility of strengthening the left flank. But neither club managed to close the deal in time.
Atlético de Madrid has been more agile, more direct... and has come out on top. Grimaldo has opted to accept the red-and-white proposal after confirming the interest and the sports project. The agreement could be finalized in a matter of days, if there are no setbacks.
beats Barça and Madrid
Diego Pablo Simeone requested it and the club has moved quickly. At the Metropolitano, they needed to strengthen the left flank with a reliable and proven profile. Grimaldo fits perfectly with what the Argentine coach is looking for.
Atlético wants a modern, offensive, and technical full-back, capable of providing depth and balance. His precise crosses, his set-piece prowess, and his tactical vision convinced the coaching staff. His experience in major competitions adds a key added value for the club.
The signing aims to be strategic to regain competitive weight on the left flank. The club believes that Grimaldo will raise the team's level. Additionally, it will allow for greater rotation in an increasingly demanding schedule.
Simeone wants him | @simeone
Bayer Leverkusen has valued the player at 30 million euros to start any negotiation. It is not a minor figure, but neither is it unmanageable if his recent performance is considered. Atlético believes it can make that investment without compromising the rest of its planning.
The player's will will be key to the outcome. Close sources assure that he wishes to return to Spain as soon as possible. He is motivated by the challenge of competing for titles in a league he knows well.
Atlético offers a leading role, something Grimaldo deeply values. With Xabi Alonso out of Leverkusen, his continuity in Germany loses meaning. The option of working with Simeone attracts him more than any other.
Barça let him slip away... again
At Barça, they still regret letting Grimaldo leave in 2016 for Benfica. Since then, his evolution has been constant, becoming one of the best in Europe. This summer there was interest, but nothing that materialized.
The presence of Alejandro Balde and the economic restrictions cooled any serious attempt to bring him back. Barça prioritized other needs and younger profiles. But seeing Grimaldo sign for a direct rival leaves a bitter taste at Can Barça.
On the horizon, Atlético also considers other options like Mathías Olivera in case the operation becomes complicated. But everything points to Grimaldo being the chosen one to strengthen the left flank. His signing would be strategic and would raise the competitive level of the squad.
Alejandro Grimaldo returns home and does so with the intention of being important from day one. It will not be at Camp Nou or Bernabéu, but at Metropolitano. With a very clear objective: to fight for everything.
