Barcelona sporting director identify former La Masia star as a priority target | OneFootball

Barcelona’s decision to sign Joao Cancelo in the January transfer window is bearing fruit, as the Portuguese international has been integral to the team’s setup in recent weeks.

The injuries to Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde have clearly shown that Barcelona do require ample backup in the fullback spots.

But with Cancelo’s long-term future unclear, sporting director Deco is keen on bringing in a new fullback in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Deco interested in Alejandro Grimaldo

According to Diario SPORT, Deco has identified Alejandro Grimaldo as the ideal player to reinforce Barcelona’s fullback department.

The Spaniard currently plies his trade for Bayer Leverkusen, but his contract expires in 2027. That could make him a very gettable target for Barça.

Will Grimaldo finally return to Barcelona? (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)

The report adds that Grimaldo could be available for less than €15 million in the coming summer, making him an ideal target for the Blaugrana.

At 30 years of age, the Spaniard offers ample experience at the highest level of football, having featured in close to 300 matches across the Bundesliga and Liga Portugal.

Grimaldo’s current release clause is valued at €20 million, but he could be available for just €15 million, aided by the fact that Bayer Leverkusen president Fernando Carro is a socio.

The report adds that Grimaldo wants to return to Spain after years in Portugal and Germany. Being a former graduate of the La Masia academy, a return to Barcelona could be seen as a natural move.

The fullback’s salary isn’t high either, which should greatly aid Barcelona, given their current economic situation. Leverkusen, for their part, are unlikely to pose too many challenges either, making Grimaldo a logical transfer target for the club this summer.