For weeks, Alejandro Grimaldo's name has been strongly circulating in the offices of Spanish soccer. Both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona showed interest in the Valencian full-back.
At 29 years old, Alejandro Grimaldo has had an outstanding season at Bayer Leverkusen, which has caught the attention of several major teams. However, neither the Whites nor the blaugranas will be his destination.
The full-back's future in Germany is complicated after Xabi Alonso's departure as coach. His continuity at Leverkusen is uncertain. Meanwhile, in Spain, a team has stepped forward to secure his signing: Atlético de Madrid.
Atlético enters the scene with strength
The red-and-white team is looking to strengthen their left flank for the next season. The current options haven't convinced Diego Simeone, and Alejandro Grimaldo seems to perfectly fit the profile they need. At the Metropolitano, they value his experience in European competitions and his maturity as a player.
Additionally, the Valencian provides an offensive boost that Cholo really likes. His precision in crosses and his effectiveness in set pieces are qualities that can make a difference. At Atlético, they see him as a key piece to improve a flank that has caused problems in recent seasons.
A complicated operation but with good signs
It won't be an easy signing; Bayer Leverkusen has set the player's price at about 30 million euros. This figure poses a challenge for Atlético, which must manage its resources carefully in a competitive market. However, Alejandro Grimaldo's desire to return to Spain may facilitate negotiations.
The footballer himself has made clear his desire to play for a major LaLiga team. This intention could be the key for Atlético to convince the Germans and close the deal. However, the Madrid club is still considering other options in the market.
Competition in the market and Grimaldo's future
Mathías Olivera is also on Atlético's agenda as an alternative for the left-back position. The final decision will depend on how the market evolves and the real possibilities of completing one signing or the other.
The truth is that Alejandro Grimaldo is back on the radar of the major Spanish clubs. His future is now at the center of a tug-of-war that promises to be one of the big moves of the summer. Neither Barça nor Madrid, but Grimaldo returns home, and he could do so in red and white.