Transfer Market: Grimaldo's Return to Spain Sealed for €25 Million

Alex Grimaldo's transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Atlético Madrid is reportedly in its final stages, with the clubs reaching a preliminary agreement for a total of 25 million euros, including bonuses, according to Kicker magazine.

Following Atlético's expressed interest in the Spanish international last week, negotiations for the left-back, who turns 31 in September, are now virtually complete.

The swift conclusion of the deal comes as a surprise, given the initial disparity in negotiating positions. Spanish sources indicated an offer of 20 million euros, including bonuses, while the Leverkusen club initially demanded 30 million. The two sides met halfway, settling on a final figure of 25 million euros, a package that includes easily achievable bonuses.

Grimaldo joined Bayer in 2023 on a free transfer from Benfica. With his departure, the Bundesliga's sixth-placed team loses one of its most influential players: last season, the Spaniard, who secured the domestic double with Leverkusen in 2024, tallied 14 goals and 13 assists across all competitions, continuing to excel as a master of corners and direct free-kicks.