Real Madrid prepares to start a new era with Xabi Alonso at the helm. After Carlo Ancelotti's confirmed departure, the Basque coach is already working on sports planning. His list of requests includes several surprising names.
One of them has especially caught the attention within Barça's environment. It is a player trained at La Masia who never found a place in the first team. Now he could end up strengthening his eternal rival.
Xabi wants to start his era with an impactful signing
The new white coach has his priorities very clear. He wants to strengthen key positions with footballers of immediate performance. In one of those positions, he has identified an urgent need.
Madrid's left-back hasn't been convincing in recent years. Mendy remains inconsistent, Fran García hasn't consolidated his level, and Camavinga is not a natural left-back. Xabi wants a profile with experience, reliability, and European track record.
The player in question has been one of the most outstanding this season in the Bundesliga. Under Xabi Alonso's own orders, he has reached a very high level in Germany. He has been key in defense and also contributing in attack.
He has established himself as a complete footballer, with goals, leadership, and a great understanding of the game. His performance has caught the attention of several big clubs in Europe. But the Basque coach wants him in his new project.
Madrid and player have already had initial contacts
According to close sources, the white club has started conversations to probe his situation. The player views a return to Spain favorably. The fact of reuniting with Xabi Alonso can be a determining factor.
The player's environment considers that he is at the ideal moment to make the leap. He has international experience, has performed in the Champions League, and arrives with continuity and competitive rhythm. He wouldn't need adaptation.
The possibility has fallen like a cold shower in Can Barça. The player grew up at La Masia and spent years waiting for an opportunity. That call never came, and he had to leave to progress.
From the sports management, they acknowledge that his departure was painful. He was one of the most valued talents of his generation. But injuries and lack of opportunities thwarted his passage through the first team.
At 29 years old, the player is in full maturity. He is not a promise, but a reality. He has played more than 300 professional matches and has played in two demanding leagues.
Moreover, his cost is not high compared to other profiles in the market. Madrid knows they can close a strategic, sports, and economic operation. A move that can strengthen and weaken at the same time.
Barça was close, but didn't act
For years he has been linked with a possible return to Camp Nou. Even this summer his name resurfaced. But the priorities of the blue and red club have been in other areas of the field.
Economic restrictions have also been key. Without salary margin or liquidity, they couldn't compete. The player, meanwhile, continued to shine outside of Spain... and now he is rumored to return.
Xabi Alonso fully trusts this player. He considers him the perfect profile for his new system. He can cover the left flank with guarantees for several seasons.
From the white leadership, the first steps have already been taken. If nothing goes wrong, he will be one of the first signings of the new project. A move with direct impact at Camp Nou.
Yes, it is Alejandro Grimaldo, former Barça, trained at La Masia, and current figure of Leverkusen. He never debuted with the blue and red first team. Now he could do it... but at Santiago Bernabéu.