MADRID, June 30, 2026 Alejandro Grimaldo is set to end a decade long exile from Spanish football this summer, but not at the club that shaped him. Reports from the Spanish capital indicate the Bayer Leverkusen left back is closing in on a move to Atlético Madrid, with a deal worth approximately €20 million nearing completion .
The Valencia born defender, who spent his formative years in Barcelona’s La Masia academy before departing for Benfica in 2016, has long been a subject of speculation regarding a return to the Camp Nou . However, despite Barcelona’s well documented interest in reinforcing the left back position, no formal offer has materialised, leaving the door open for their city rivals to strike .
Grimaldo has developed into one of Europe’s most productive attacking full backs since leaving Catalonia. After seven successful seasons in Lisbon, he joined Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer in 2023 and played an instrumental role in the club’s historic undefeated Bundesliga title winning campaign . His form earned him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or in 2024 and a place in Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 squad, and he is currently part of Luis de la Fuente’s contingent at the ongoing FIFA World Cup .
For Atlético Madrid, the move represents a strategic pivot after missing out on Marc Cucurella, who, like Grimaldo, is another La Masia graduate but ultimately signed for Real Madrid.
Barcelona’s quiet stance
At the Camp Nou, the narrative surrounding Grimaldo has been one of persistent rumour rather than decisive action. While the club has been linked with the 30 year old due to uncertainties over the form of Alejandro Balde and the future of João Cancelo, it appears there is little appetite to disrupt the current squad dynamics .
With Balde cemented as a first team regular and options available to reshuffle the defence, the Catalan hierarchy have shown no urgency to accelerate a deal for their former prospect.
Grimaldo, who has openly spoken about his desire to return to Spanish football, is now poised to do so wearing the red and white of Atlético rather than the Blaugrana .
Reporting by Azuka for Betandsured.com
