Barcelona are once again exploring the market for full-back reinforcements, and a familiar name has resurfaced – Alejandro Grimaldo.
According to SPORT, Barcelona are closely monitoring the situation of the Bayer Leverkusen left-back, who is increasingly likely to leave the Bundesliga side this summer.
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With just one year remaining on his contract, the outlet mentions that Grimaldo could be available for a fee below €12 million, making him one of the most attractive low-cost defensive options in the summer.
The Spanish defender is believed to be open to a new challenge, and crucially, he is prioritising a return to Spain.
There is significant interest
That preference puts Barcelona, and potentially Atletico Madrid, in a strong position if they decide to act.
However, as one can suspect, interest is not limited to La Liga, with Juventus and AC Milan also tracking his availability.
For Barcelona, Grimaldo was already on their radar last summer as they searched for a reliable alternative to Alejandro Balde.
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At one point, the club had even moved close to securing an agreement, but the deal ultimately collapsed as they failed to offload Gerard Martin.
Things have changed at Barcelona
Alejandro Grimaldo is ready to leave Bayer Leverkusen. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)
Fast forward to now, and the story has changed.
Barcelona’s sporting department is once again reviewing the full-back positions, with changes expected as part of a broader squad restructure.
Yet, the hierarchy has evolved, as Gerard Martin has become a valuable asset that the club are reluctant to lose.
As far as Balde’s situation is concerned, although Barcelona are not actively pushing him out, they remain open to offers.
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That said, no serious proposals have materialised, and the player himself has shown no intention of leaving.
This leaves Barcelona in a tough position.
This is because Grimaldo represents a cost-effective, experienced option who understands the club’s philosophy, having come through their youth system.
At the same time, though, the club would not want Balde’s development to be affected either.
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