Real Madrid & Barcelona target Grimaldo available for cut-price fee

Bayer Leverkusen left-back Alejandro Grimaldo has been linked with an exit from the BayArena this summer.

Mundo Deportivo claims that the Spaniard is keen on a return to his homeland, with heavyweights Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid interested in his services.

Grimaldo’s suitors have been handed a huge boost as he has a cheap release clause worth €18-€20 million compared to his €40-million valuation.

Barca are currently prioritising a left-winger and a goalkeeper in the transfer market but are not ruling out signing a left-back if an opportunity arises.

Having grown up at La Masia, Barca would have an edge if they were to pursue Grimaldo.

However, the 29-year-old may have to settle for a deputy role, with manager Hansi Flick expected to back fellow Spaniard Alejandro Balde as the first-choice left-back.

Gerard Martin has shown his top-class potential during Balde’s absence, while Barca are planning to integrate 18-year-old Jofre Torrents into the first team following his impressive performances at the youth level.

It indicates that Barca are well-covered in the left-back position, and Grimaldo wouldn’t be a huge miss.

Madrid will also have an equal advantage in the transfer race due to the presence of head coach Xabi Alonso, who worked with Grimaldo at Leverkusen.

It was under Alonso’s guidance that Grimaldo transformed into a world-class wing-back, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s rise to the top.

Los Merengues are scouring the market for a left-back as they want an upgrade over Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia.

Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras is the desired target, but his transfer fee and Manchester United’s buy-back clause are proving to be a stumbling block in the negotiations.

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Real consider Grimaldo as a great alternative option.

The former Benfica star can also be of great value to Atletico, who are keen on strengthening the left-back spot this summer.

Los Rojiblancos are pushing hard for AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez, but Saudi giants Al Hilal have an agreement in place with the Italian giants.