Champions League
Atlético Madrid negotiate €25m move for Alejandro Grimaldo
Atlético Madrid have entered formal negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen to sign 30‑year‑old Alejandro Grimaldo for a reported €25 million fee, with personal terms already agreed and a contract slated to run to 2029 with an option for another year this summer.
Transfer reporter Matteo Moretto reported that Atlético Madrid have opened formal talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a €25 million deal for Grimaldo. Earlier discussions had centred on a fee in the €10‑13 million range, making the current offer a significant increase.
Fabrizio Romano added that personal terms between Grimaldo and the club are settled, with the player having “said yes to Atlético’s project”. The agreement includes a contract that runs to 2029 and contains an option for an additional year.
The move gained urgency after Marc Cucurella agreed terms with Real Madrid, prompting Atlético Madrid to focus on Grimaldo to complete their left‑back rebuild. This effectively collapsed one half of the club’s two‑track plan to refresh the defensive flanks.
Bayer Leverkusen’s valuation remains higher, with Kölner Stadt‑Anzeiger and Sky Germany citing a €30 million asking price. Some Spanish outlets have mentioned a release clause between €18 million and €20 million, though the German side appears willing to negotiate below that figure.
Grimaldo arrived at Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer from Benfica in the summer of 2023 and became a key element of Xabi Alonso’s title‑winning side. He recorded 14 goals and 12 assists in 44 matches from left‑back.
His reputation as a set‑piece specialist adds further appeal for Atlético Madrid, where Diego Simeone places great tactical importance on dead‑ball situations. Simeone’s emphasis on such moments aligns with Grimaldo’s proven delivery record.
Grimaldo’s contract with Bayer Leverkusen runs to 2027, but media report he has formally indicated he will not extend. This leaves the German club with limited leverage, forcing a choice between a discounted sale now or a free exit later. The next development will be whether Atlético Madrid raise their offer to bridge the gap to Leverkusen’s €30 million valuation.