Atlético Madrid have secured one of the most exciting transfers of the summer after reaching a full agreement to sign Spanish left-back Alejandro Grimaldo from Bayer Leverkusen.
According to multiple reports, including transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the deal is now complete, with Bayer Leverkusen accepting a package worth more than €20 million, including add-ons. Personal terms between Grimaldo and Atlético Madrid were agreed last week, and the player reportedly made it clear that Atlético was his only preferred destination.
The transfer marks a significant statement of intent from Diego Simeone as Atlético continue strengthening their squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Grimaldo Finally Returns to Spain
The move represents a long-awaited return to Spanish football for Grimaldo. Despite coming through the famous youth ranks of FC Barcelona, the Valencia-born defender never established himself in La Liga and instead built his reputation abroad with Benfica and later Bayer Leverkusen.
Since joining Leverkusen on a free transfer in 2023, Grimaldo developed into one of the most productive attacking full-backs in Europe. His ability to create chances, score from set pieces, and contribute goals made him one of the Bundesliga’s standout performers.
Reports from Spain suggest Atlético and Bayer Leverkusen finally bridged the gap in negotiations after weeks of discussions. While Leverkusen initially valued the defender at around €30 million, both clubs eventually found common ground on a package that could rise to approximately €25 million with bonuses.
Why Atlético Madrid Wanted Grimaldo
Atlético have been searching for a reliable solution on the left side of defence for several seasons. Following the club’s failure to land Marc Cucurella, who instead moved elsewhere, Simeone turned his attention to Grimaldo as the ideal alternative.
The Spanish international offers versatility that fits perfectly into Atlético’s tactical system. He can operate as a traditional left-back, wing-back, or even in a more advanced midfield role when required. His quality from free-kicks and corners is another major reason the club pushed hard to secure his signature.
During the 2025/26 season, Grimaldo continued to demonstrate his attacking qualities, contributing goals and assists while maintaining his reputation as one of Europe’s most dangerous wide defenders.
Bayer Leverkusen Lose a Key Star
The departure is a significant blow for Bayer Leverkusen. Grimaldo played a crucial role in the club’s recent successes and became one of the team’s leaders after helping them establish themselves among Europe’s elite.
German reports indicate that Leverkusen were reluctant to sell but ultimately accepted Atlético’s improved offer. The fact that Grimaldo’s contract was approaching its final stages and his desire to return to Spain influenced the club’s decision.
His exit leaves Leverkusen with a major gap to fill, particularly considering his remarkable attacking output from defence. Replacing a player capable of regularly contributing goals and assists will be one of the club’s biggest challenges this summer.
What This Means for Atlético’s Title Ambitions
For Atlético Madrid, Grimaldo’s arrival could be one of the most important signings of the transfer window. The 30-year-old brings experience from the Bundesliga, Primeira Liga, Champions League, and international football with Spain.
His addition strengthens a squad that is looking to challenge for major honours domestically and in Europe. Atlético fans will be particularly excited by his attacking threat, creativity, and ability to influence games from wide areas.
With the agreement now in place and all parties satisfied, Grimaldo is expected to become Atlético Madrid’s newest signing in the coming days, giving Simeone a proven performer capable of making an immediate impact.
The transfer also fulfils Grimaldo’s long-held ambition of returning to Spain and competing for trophies in La Liga, bringing an end to one of the summer’s most closely watched transfer sagas.
