Bayer Leverkusen have placed a €30 million price tag on Alejandro Grimaldo amid interest from Atlético Madrid, a figure three times higher than previously suggested valuations for the Spanish left-back.
Spanish media had earlier indicated that the 29-year-old could be available for between €10 million and €12 million. However, German outlet Kicker reports that Leverkusen are demanding at least €30 million for the defender, who has entered the final year of his contract at the BayArena.
Valuation and market context
Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes defended the club’s stance when speaking to Kicker, citing market conditions for left-backs. “It always depends on the market,” Rolfes stated. “And the market for left-backs is not easy.”
The significant gap between Leverkusen’s demands and the lower estimates reflects both Grimaldo’s status as a seasoned performer and the challenges of sourcing quality replacements in a thin market. The Spanish defender has established himself as a key figure for Die Werkself since joining from Benfica, contributing significantly to their domestic and European campaigns.
Player stance and negotiations
According to reports, Grimaldo has verbally agreed to join Atlético Madrid and has given the green light for a move to the Spanish capital. With just twelve months remaining on his current deal, the defender appears keen to return to his homeland rather than extend his stay in Germany.
Negotiations between the Bundesliga club and the La Liga side are currently underway. Sources suggest Atlético Madrid are preparing to submit a formal offer that falls below the €30 million threshold but exceeds €25 million, bridging part of the valuation gap while acknowledging Grimaldo’s contractual situation.
What happens next
The coming days will prove crucial as Atlético seek to secure a reduced fee for a player in the final year of his contract, while Leverkusen hold firm on their valuation. Should an agreement prove elusive, Grimaldo could potentially leave as a free agent in 12 months’ time, though both parties appear motivated to reach a compromise before the transfer window closes.