Former Barcelona academy ace opens up on Real Madrid links – ‘Want to play for the best teams in the world’ | OneFootball

Alejandro Grimaldo, the Bayer Leverkusen left-back, has opened up about his name being linked with Real Madrid.

Speaking on El Chiringuito (h/t Mundo Deportivo), the former La Masia product admitted that being associated with a club like Real Madrid is a moment of pride for him.

“I’m very happy to be linked with Real Madrid. It’s a source of pride that people can think I’m at the level to play for one of the greatest teams in the world.

“It’s what I’m working for and one of my ambitions.”  said Grimaldo when asked directly about the rumours.

The Spaniard has enjoyed a strong season under the management of Xabi Alonso, who is set to take charge of Real Madrid.

“I’ve never closed the door on that. Leverkusen is a very strong team, but my dream is to return to Spain. It’s an idea I’ve had in my head for a long time.

“Would I like to play for Real Madrid? What I want is to play for the best teams in the world, and if that opportunity comes,” he added.

The links to Grimaldo stem from Real Madrid’s ongoing concerns at left-back, where Ferland Mendy’s injury issues have left only Fran Garcia as the main option.

Alejandro Grimaldo has opened up on Real Madrid’s interest. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Although Grimaldo still has a contract at Bayer Leverkusen until 2027, his relationship with Alonso and the club’s need for depth in that position led to natural speculation. In fact, Alonso has reportedly asked for a new left-back ahead of next season.

Carreras edges closer to Madrid move

Despite Grimaldo’s openness to the idea, it may be too late. Reports suggest that Real Madrid are close to securing a deal for Benfica’s rising star Alvaro Carreras.

The 22-year-old is said to have agreed personal terms with Los Blancos, including a long-term contract until 2031 worth around €9 million per year.

Carreras, whose release clause stands at €50 million, appears to be the preferred choice for the club’s future at left-back. While nothing has been officially announced yet, it seems only a matter of time before Real Madrid confirm the signing.

As for Grimaldo, his words may reflect genuine admiration, but with Carreras almost through the door, it is unlikely Madrid will go for two left-backs.

Still, the fact that a player developed at Barcelona’s academy is openly expressing his pride in being linked to Madrid says a lot about the pull of the Spanish capital.