Barcelona battles Real Madrid for Key Transfer Target Grimaldo

Barcelona have reportedly added Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo to their key transfer list this summer, as they will have to compete with their spanish rival Real Madrid for the Spaniard.

Mundo Deportivo report the Barcelona are interested in bringing Grimaldo back to Catalonia amidst Real Madrid interest. The 29-year-old rose through the ranks of Barcelona’s youth system before he went on to star for Benfica and his recent team, Bayer Leverkusen.

Barcelona sporting director Deco already confirmed the club is only interested in signing a few players this summer, with a winger and a goalkeeper remaining the Catalans’ top priorities. As defending Spanish champions eye Espanyol’s Joan García and Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, the club are now also on the hunt for some added depth at the left back position.

Barcelona reportedly views Grimaldo’s quality, experience and knowledge of Barça’s style as key reasons why the defender could shine on Hansi Flick’s left flank. He would also serve as an upgrade to one of the team’s weakest positions, currently held by Alejandro Balde.

Grimaldo played a pivotal role in Xabi Alonso’s record-setting Bayer Leverkusen team that went on a 51-match unbeaten run in the 2023/2024 season. He recorded 12 goals and 17 assists in his 51 appearances across all competitions that campaign, helping the German outfit win their first-ever Bundesliga title.

While Bayer Leverkusen struggled to find similar success in the 2024/2025 season, Grimaldo still was a constant presence on the left flank and ended the campaign with four goals and 12 assists to his name.

Grimaldo’s recent success makes him a highly sought-after transfer target. Along with Barcelona, Real Madrid also have their eyes on the left back. Although Benfica’s Álvaro Carreras remains Los Blancos’ primary target, as they are also interested in Grimaldo.

It just might be a race between the bitter rivals to see which club can strike a deal with the defender, who reportedly costs around €18 million (£15.2 million; $20.6 million).