Alejandro Grimaldo is very close to becoming the new signing for Atlético de Madrid. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Spanish full-back has already given the green light to the rojiblanco project, and personal conditions are practically closed, leaving club negotiations as the last important step.
Atlético is now working with Bayer Leverkusen to finalize a deal that would be over 10 million euros, a very interesting figure for a 30-year-old player with a contract until 2027 and a proven track record in elite European football.
Alejandro Grimaldo says yes to the rojiblanco project
The willingness of Alejandro Grimaldo changes the landscape of the operation significantly. The Valencia-born defender sees returning to Spain and competing in LaLiga with good eyes, despite not having had a consolidated period yet, despite being part of Barcelona's youth setup.
Atlético has been searching for a reliable profile for the left flank for a while. Simeone needs a player with stamina, striking ability, precision in the final pass, and the capacity to handle different game contexts. Grimaldo fits the bill due to his experience and technical quality.
His time in Germany has boosted his reputation. At Leverkusen, he has gone from being a good market opportunity to becoming one of the most productive full-backs in Europe, directly influencing offensive play and set pieces.
Atlético de Madrid negotiates with Bayer Leverkusen
Atlético de Madrid knows the deal is not sealed yet, but the outlook is positive. The key will be reaching a middle ground with Bayer Leverkusen, which is not willing to give up an important player despite his contract entering a delicate phase.
The release clause surpasses 10 million euros, yet the player's sporting value is much higher considering his recent performances. In the 2025/26 season, he scored 14 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions, impressive numbers for a wing-back.
This impact explains why Leverkusen is trying to protect its interests. Nevertheless, the player's desire could carry significant weight. If Grimaldo insists on returning to Spain, the German club might accept a reasonable sale rather than risk losing leverage next summer.
A wing-back tailor-made for LaLiga competition
For LaLiga, Alejandro Grimaldo's return would be significant news. He is not a prospect for development but a mature player, an international with Champions League experience and prepared to perform from day one.
His profile can greatly benefit the rojiblanco plan. He possesses accurate crossing, good set-piece delivery, and an offensive understanding uncommon in players of his position. Moreover, he can play as a full-back in a back four or as a wing-back in a three-man defense.
His versatility is highly valued at Atlético. Simeone needs players who do not force a complete system change, and Grimaldo would offer various solutions within the same match. This tactical flexibility is one of the reasons why his name has gained so much strength.
Alejandro Grimaldo, a sensible opportunity
There are few options in the market as complete as him at a relatively affordable value. The deal may not be low-cost in terms of wages, but it is indeed appealing in transfer fees if finalized slightly above 10 million.
Bayer Leverkusen would lose a significant player but also generate revenue from a player whose contract expires in 2027. For the German side, the decision revolves around weighing whether it's better to retain him for another season or accept a controlled sale now.
At the Metropolitano, optimism is on the rise. Alejandro Grimaldo wants the challenge, the personal agreement is well advanced, and Atlético is pushing to secure a signing that would significantly strengthen their left flank. If negotiations progress as anticipated, Alejandro Grimaldo could be one of the key early signings for the rojiblanco summer.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, BOMBAZO: El Atlético cierra el fichaje de Grimaldo