Atlético Madrid ‘to target’ Alejandro Grimaldo after cooling Maxi Araújo interest | OneFootball

Atlético Madrid have stepped back from Maxi Araújo, with Sporting pointing to the Uruguay international’s 80 million euros clause. The focus has shifted to former Benfica left-back Alejandro Grimaldo.

Record writes that Diego Simeone’s side are monitoring Grimaldo at Bayer Leverkusen, and that Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella is also on their shortlist.

The report adds that Atlético face competition for Cucurella from Real Madrid and Barcelona. Grimaldo is viewed as the more attainable option, with the player wanting to leave Leverkusen and available for only 10 million euros.

After eight seasons at Benfica, Grimaldo moved to Leverkusen in 2023/24 and quickly became a standout under Xabi Alonso. He delivered 12 goals and 17 assists, helping win the Bundesliga and the German Cup.

The 30-year-old maintained that level in 2025/26, featuring in 46 matches for 14 goals and 12 assists. His future is likely to remain a talking point in the coming weeks.

Source: Glorioso 1904