Leverkusen star admits he could have joined Barcelona or Real Madrid this summer

Martin Macdonald

• 3 Oct 2025 07:00 CDT
• 2 min read

News

Leverkusen star Alejandro Grimaldo says he could have joined Barcelona or Real Madrid this past summer.

The former Benfica wing-back has been an impressive performer in recent years and was key in Xabi Alonso's Bundesliga-winning side in 2024.

Grimaldo actually started his professional career with Barcelona B and there has been constant rumours regarding a return, while he was also tipped to reunite with Alonso after the Spaniard was appointed as new head coach of Los Blancos.

In the end, Madrid signed Alvaro Carreras, while Barca seemed content with left-backs Gerard Martin and Alejandro Balde.

"There was always the possibility of going with Xabi, but in the end it didn't happen," Grimaldo told reporters.

"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 also acknowledged reported interest from Atletico Madrid.

"Atletico is the same; there have been talks, but practically nothing has happened," Grimaldo continued.

"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 have had a tumultuous season so far as Alonso's replacement, Erik ten Hag, was sacked as manager after just two matches.

Grimaldo, though, has been one of their better performers, with four goals and two assists in eight appearances so far.

The FootballTransfers app

Check out FootballTransfers' new app for all of football's big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.

The FootballTransfers app is available in the Apple App Store. Download here:

•App Store