Alejandro Grimaldo close to Atlético as left flank signing could reshape side | OneFootball

According to La Colina De Nervion, Atlético Madrid are stepping up a move for Bayer Leverkusen left-back Alejandro Grimaldo, who wants a LaLiga return, with a deal between 10 and 20 million euros. The transfer is not official but is advanced.

Grimaldo is under contract until 30 June 2027. Figures discussed include about 10 million euros or 15 million plus 5 million in add-ons, and Bayer must choose to sell now or enter the final year.

In the 2025-26 Bundesliga he played 29 times, producing eight goals and eight assists. Across all competitions he delivered 14 goals and 12 assists, exceptional output for a defender.

Atlético want more delivery, set pieces and a final pass from the left and see Grimaldo as that profile. His wish to return to Spain narrows Leverkusen’s leverage, with personal terms close and the fee now central.

How Diego Pablo Simeone would use him is key. Leverkusen gave him attacking licence and inside positions, while Atlético’s left-back often defends more and manages long off-ball duels.

If restricted to a conservative role, the move would lose part of its logic. If granted height and responsibility, he could lift set pieces, raise left-sided output and unlock compact defences.

There are risks, he is 30, resale would be limited and his current system maximised his strengths. Even so, his recent numbers, contract position and wish to return aid negotiations. If Bayer sell now and Simeone grants attacking licence, he would be Atlético’s first major reinforcement for 2026-27.

Source: La Colina De Nervion