Barcelona on alert as Bayer Leverkusen superstar becomes available for just €10 million

Barcelona have been presented with an unexpected opportunity in the transfer market after Bayer Leverkusen defender Alejandro Grimaldo emerged as a realistic option for a surprisingly low fee this summer.

According to SPORT, the former La Masia graduate could be available for around €10 million, a figure that has immediately attracted attention given his performances over the past few seasons.

Grimaldo is no stranger to Barcelona, as the left-back spent several years in the club’s youth system before leaving for Benfica in 2016. 

After establishing himself in Portugal, he joined Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer in 2023 and quickly became one of the most influential attacking full-backs in European football.

Barcelona keeping close eye on Grimaldo

Barcelona are keeping an eye on Grimaldo. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

The report explains that Grimaldo’s name has surfaced during Barcelona’s planning for next season, particularly because uncertainty remains around the left-back position.

Although Alejandro Balde remains highly rated at the club, his status has not looked as untouchable as it once did. 

Competition for places and fluctuations in form throughout the campaign have led Barcelona to evaluate possible alternatives should an opportunity arise in the market.

That is where Grimaldo enters the picture. At 30 years of age, the Spanish international brings experience, quality in possession and a proven attacking threat from wide areas.

Leverkusen ready to part ways

Grimaldo is open to returning to Spain. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)

On the other hand, his situation at Bayer Leverkusen makes the deal particularly attractive. 

This is because, with only one year remaining on his contract, the German club is reportedly willing to cash in now rather than risk losing him for nothing in the future.

At the same time, it must be noted that Barcelona are not alone in their interest, with Atletico Madrid also closely following developments, although neither club has submitted an official offer at this stage.

As far as Barcelona are concerned, they will only move to strengthen the left-back area if Balde leaves or they fail to retain Joao Cancelo.