Barcelona reignite interest in Bundesliga star who spent 8 years at La Masia | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have already concluded one of their campaigns for the 2024-25 season, as they lifted the Copa del Rey trophy on Saturday, after beating Real Madrid in extra time of the final.

However, the Blaugranes still are in contention for two more trophies, i.e., La Liga, in which they enjoy a four-point gap over the Merengues with five matches to go, and the UEFA Champions League, in which they have to overcome Inter Milan in the semi-finals to reach the final.

As a result, the Catalans would still be focused fully on the season remaining ahead for Hansi Flick’s team. However, they are also planning and making some moves to strengthen the team in the upcoming summer transfer window.

In this regard, Sky Sport Germany reports that one of the players in whom Barcelona have reignited their interest is the Bayer Leverkusen fullback Alejandro Grimaldo. The Blaugrana club’s Sporting Director Deco is eportedly eager to bring the defender back to the Catalan capital, with ongoing talks surrounding a potential return.

Grimaldo is under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2027. However, reports suggest there is a gentleman’s agreement in place that could facilitate a return to his boyhood club. The 29-year-old Spanish defender is believed to be valued between €30 and €40 million.

Bayer Leverkusen left-back Alejandro Grimaldo. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

There is no doubt that Grimaldo is a very skilful player, and his having been trained at La Masia, spending 8 years in the Barcelona youth system, means he is already familiar with the Barcelona style of play.

However, it remains to be seen if a player of his stature would join to be a substitute, and Hansi Flick already has a very competent and reliable player for this position, i.e., Alejandro Balde.

It is true that the Blaugranes would want to sign another fullback, who can provide some cover and competition for Balde, and some previous reports have also indicated Joan Laporta’s desire to bring him to the team, and the player’s own wish to play for Barcelona.

Thus, it remains to be seen how this operation develops. There is no doubt that the inclusion of Alejandro Grimaldo will only make the team stronger, but the Catalans would need to spend their money wisely as they continue to face FFP problems.