Atletico Madrid have opened formal negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen after submitting a €25 million bid for left-back Alejandro Grimaldo. The Spain international has already agreed personal terms with Diego Simeone’s side on a contract running until 2029 with an option for an additional year, though the deal remains subject to a club-to-club agreement.
Valuation gap remains
Despite progress on personal terms, Leverkusen are reportedly demanding €30 million for the 30-year-old, leaving a €5 million shortfall between the clubs’ positions. The German champions signed Grimaldo on a free transfer from Benfica in 2023, meaning any fee would represent pure profit, yet they appear reluctant to accept Atletico’s latest offer.
Grimaldo has formally informed Leverkusen that he will not extend his current contract beyond its 2027 expiry date. This places the Bundesliga club under pressure to sell this summer rather than risk a free departure later.
Atletico pivot after Cucurella setback
The acceleration of Atletico’s pursuit follows the collapse of their interest in Marc Cucurella, who has agreed terms with city rivals Real Madrid. This development forced Simeone to refocus efforts on Grimaldo, who enjoyed an exceptional 2023-24 campaign under Xabi Alonso, recording 14 goals and 12 assists across all competitions.
The Madrid club are also pursuing Aleix García from the same Leverkusen squad at a similarly reported €25 million valuation, suggesting a broader trading relationship between the clubs this window.
Leverkusen’s strategic dilemma
Leverkusen’s stance is shaped by the need to finance a squad rebuild following major outgoings this summer. German media report that proceeds from a Grimaldo sale are earmarked for reinvestment, explaining their willingness to negotiate despite his status as vice-captain and set-piece specialist.
However, with Grimaldo refusing to renew and two years remaining on his deal, Leverkusen face a choice between securing a substantial fee now or retaining a key player who could depart without compensation in 2027. Atletico must now decide whether to increase their bid to meet the €30 million valuation or risk protracted negotiations.