Atlético Madrid abandon Sporting full-back, turn to ex-Benfica man | OneFootball

Maxi Araújo was at one point one of Atlético Madrid’s main targets for the summer transfer window. However, Sporting pointed to the Uruguayan international’s release clause, set at €80 million, a fee considered too high by the Colchoneros, who are now interested in a former Benfica full-back.

According to Record, Diego Simeone’s side are keeping an eye on Alejandro Grimaldo. Alongside the Bayer Leverkusen defender, Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella is also on the shortlist to strengthen the left side of Atlético’s defence.

Atlético Madrid will face competition in the race to sign the Blues defender, as the Spanish international is also attracting interest from rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona. The more affordable alternative would be Grimaldo, who has already expressed a desire to leave Leverkusen and is available for just €10 million.

After eight seasons of consistently high-level performances at Benfica, Grimaldo moved to Bayer Leverkusen in 2023/24 and quickly became one of the standout figures in the team then managed by Xabi Alonso. In his debut season, he posted impressive numbers, with 12 goals and 17 assists, playing a decisive role in winning the Bundesliga and the German Cup.

His form remained at a high level in 2025/26. The 30-year-old full-back featured in 46 matches, recording 14 goals and 12 assists, confirming himself as one of the main pillars of the German side. Grimaldo’s future promises to remain a major talking point in the coming weeks.

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