Barcelona continues planning its future and, with an eye on the upcoming transfer market, the sports management has already started to move. The blaugrana club knows it needs to strengthen several key positions, and in this process, it has set its sights on one of Bayer Leverkusen's standout players.
The team led by Xabi Alonso has been one of the great sensations of the season, and several of its players have attracted the interest of major European clubs. Barça, aware of the quality within the German team, has made an initial inquiry to know the availability.
Barça Seeks Reinforcements in the Market
The blaugrana team will face a busy summer, with possible departures that will require strengthening the squad. The most notable is the possible sale of Frenkie de Jong, whose contractual situation continues to raise doubts. His departure would leave a significant gap in the midfield, which will require Laporta and Deco to seek a reliable replacement.
However, another issue that concerns Hansi Flick is the lack of depth in the full-back positions. Both on the right and left flanks, the team doesn't have many quality alternatives. Jules Koundé is not a natural full-back, while Alejandro Balde has faced several physical problems in recent months.
For this reason, the sports management has listed two key names:
Andrei Rațiu (Rayo Vallecano) → As a possible reinforcement for the right-back position.
Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen) → To compete with Balde on the left flank.
Although the option of Rațiu remains open, Grimaldo is the top priority.
Barça's Target for the Left-Back Position
The Valencian full-back is shining at Bayer Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso's management. Since his arrival in German football, he has made a quality leap and has proven to be one of the best offensive full-backs in the world.
Last season, Grimaldo scored 12 goals and provided 20 assists, spectacular figures for a defender. In the current campaign, he has already scored 4 goals and provided 10 assists, confirming that he remains a standout player in the Bundesliga.
Barça, which has already tried to bring him back on other occasions, knows that signing him won't be easy. Bayer Leverkusen is not willing to part with one of its stars, and only a significant financial offer could change their mind.
Grimaldo's situation at Leverkusen is closely tied to Xabi Alonso's future. The Spaniard has managed to build a solid and competitive team, and his continuity will be key in determining whether some of his important players can leave.
If Alonso decides to stay at Leverkusen, it will be very difficult for the German club to let Grimaldo go. However, if the Basque coach accepts an offer from a big team like Bayern or Liverpool, the squad could undergo several changes. Barça could take advantage of the situation to sign the full-back.
How Much Would Grimaldo's Signing Cost?
Currently, Alejandro Grimaldo's market value is around 40 million euros, a figure that Barça might try to negotiate. His signing would represent a significant investment, but Deco and Laporta believe it's an opportunity they can't pass up.
Barça needs quality reinforcements, and the left-back position is one that urgently needs strengthening. Grimaldo already knows the club, would fit perfectly into Flick's scheme, and his experience in the Bundesliga has made him a much more complete player than when he left.
If Barça wants the signing to become a reality, it must move quickly and pay attention to the decision Xabi Alonso makes. The transfer market will be key and Alejandro Grimaldo's name will be at the center of all conversations.