Key Takeaways:
- Grimaldo shared that Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid all considered signing him in the summer transfer window
- The Spaniard has netted four goals and provided two assists in eight appearances for Bayer Leverkusen this season
- Los Blancos ultimately signed Alvaro Carreras, while Barcelona retained faith in Gerard Martin
Potential Return to La Liga Discussed and Dismissed
Bayer Leverkusen’s experienced left-back Alejandro Grimaldo has disclosed that he was in contention for summer moves to Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona, only for both opportunities to evaporate. Real Madrid decided to bring in Alvaro Carreras, while Barcelona kept faith in Gerard Martin, leaving Grimaldo to continue his career in the Bundesliga. The 30-year-old, who is renowned for his threat from set-pieces and attacking qualities, was also of interest to Atletico Madrid, but those talks failed to progress into a concrete offer.
🗣️ Grimaldo: "Real Madrid? There was always the possibility of going to Madrid with Xabi Alonso, but in the end it didn't happen. They signed Álvaro Carreras." @ellarguero pic.twitter.com/4RsaCFO8DA
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) October 3, 2025
Grimaldo Details Summer Transfer Window Talks
The Spanish defender clarified that there were genuine discussions with Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid in the most recent transfer window, though none produced a finalised agreement. Grimaldo confirmed: “There was always the possibility of going with Xabi, but in the end it didn’t happen,” Grimaldo said. “They signed Carreras. There was also the possibility of going to Barcelona, which also didn’t happen. You have to face the challenge of being here with a lot of motivation. There are always options, things are talked about. But if they don’t happen in the end, it’s because they weren’t meant to be.
He continued to reference Atletico’s interest as well, stating: “Atletico is the same; there have been talks, but practically nothing has happened. In the end, in the transfer market, when left-backs are needed, they talk to agents and there may be a possibility, but it hasn’t happened.”
Leverkusen’s Gain: Grimaldo’s Strong Start in Germany
While a return to Spain did not materialise, Grimaldo has made a strong impression at Bayer Leverkusen this season. Across eight matches, he has scored four goals and provided two assists, asserting himself as one of the most attacking-minded full-backs in Europe. His influence has helped Die Werkself to a solid start in domestic competitions, boosting the side’s early-season form.
| Season Appearances | Goals | Assists | Current Contract Until |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 4 | 2 | 2027 |
Future Prospects: Transfer Links Remain Alive
Grimaldo’s consistent displays and contract running until 2027 ensure that he will likely remain a long-term target for leading La Liga clubs. With another summer transfer window on the horizon, speculation persists regarding a potential move to either Real Madrid or Barcelona, possibly at a reduced fee. For the time being, his focus remains on Leverkusen’s domestic fixtures, including the upcoming Bundesliga encounter with Union Berlin, following a 1-1 draw in the Champions League against PSV earlier in the week.
