After Cucurella's move, Atletico go after Grimaldo

Atlético de Madrid

The name of Alejandro Grimaldo is gaining momentum again at the Metropolitano. The Valencia full-back, currently at Bayer Leverkusen, has a contract that runs until June 30, 2027, and his desire to return to Spain is already well known to the German club.

The deal, meanwhile, involves figures that are very different from those of Marc Cucurella. While Chelsea were asking Atletico Madrid for 50 million euros and Real Madrid ended up getting close to 60 million to complete his signing, in Leverkusen they would be willing to consider a move for Grimaldo for a fee in the range of 10 to 15 million euros.

The full-back is also in Spain's squad for the World Cup and will turn 31 in September. His career has taken him from Barcelona's B team to Benfica for a little over two million euros, before landing at Bayer Leverkusen after his contract ended. In Portugal and Germany, he has maintained a high level of performance, with his best version coming in the Bundesliga.

A profile already known at the Metropolitano

Grimaldo is not a new name for the Atletico. The rojiblanco club has had him on its radar in several transfer windows, although they never managed to finalize a deal. The player has also shown himself to be receptive on more than one occasion to the possibility of wearing the colchonero shirt.

The arrival of the Real Madrid by Cucurella left Atletico without a main plan for that position. The Chelsea full-back was the priority to reinforce the left flank ahead of the 26/27 season, with good rapport between the parties, but without an economic agreement with the English club.

There have been some doubts within Atletico's coaching staff about Grimaldo's defensive ability, although it is believed he has improved over time. His attacking profile does not spark debate and is especially valued in setups with three centre-backs and wide full-backs. Juventus and Besiktas also appear to be keeping an eye on his situation.