Atlético Madrid have officially confirmed the signing of Spanish left-back Alejandro Grimaldo from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth €20 million, marking one of the club’s key additions during the summer transfer window. The experienced defender has signed a long-term contract until 2030 as Diego Simeone continues strengthening his squad ahead of the new season.
The 30-year-old returns to La Liga after enjoying a successful spell abroad with Benfica and Bayer Leverkusen. His arrival gives Atlético one of Europe’s most attack-minded full-backs, renowned for his precise crossing, dangerous set-piece delivery, and ability to contribute both goals and assists from the left flank.
Grimaldo joined Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer from Benfica in 2023 and quickly established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s best defenders. Under Xabi Alonso, he played a crucial role in helping Leverkusen secure their historic Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal triumph, becoming one of the standout performers in the German top flight.
Atlético Madrid reportedly agreed a €20 million transfer package with Bayer Leverkusen after successful negotiations. The deal is widely viewed as excellent business, considering Grimaldo’s experience at the highest level of European football and his consistent performances over the past several seasons.
Born in Valencia, Grimaldo began his football career at Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy before moving to Portuguese giants Benfica in 2016. During his seven-and-a-half years in Lisbon, he made more than 300 appearances, won multiple domestic trophies, and developed into one of Europe’s most reliable attacking full-backs.
His move to Bayer Leverkusen elevated his reputation even further. In Germany, Grimaldo impressed with his creativity, attacking runs, defensive consistency, and exceptional dead-ball ability. His impressive goal contributions from left-back made him one of the Bundesliga’s most productive defenders.
For Atlético Madrid, the signing fills an important position in Diego Simeone’s squad. Grimaldo’s technical quality, experience, and attacking threat are expected to provide greater balance on the left side while maintaining the defensive discipline that Simeone demands from his players.
The transfer also represents a homecoming for Grimaldo, who has long expressed his desire to return to Spanish football after successful spells in Portugal and Germany. He now has the opportunity to showcase his talent once again in La Liga while competing for domestic and European honours with Atlético Madrid.
Supporters will be eager to see how quickly the Spanish international adapts to Simeone’s tactical system. Given his wealth of experience and winning mentality, expectations are high that he will immediately establish himself as a first-team regular.
The €20 million signing underlines Atlético Madrid’s ambition ahead of the new campaign. By securing one of Europe’s most accomplished left-backs, the club has added proven quality to its squad as it aims to challenge for the La Liga title and make a strong impact in European competitions.
