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Alejandro Grimaldo Leverkusengetty
Chirayu Parmar

'They signed Alvaro Carreras instead' - Bayer Leverkusen star says he could have joined Real Madrid or Barcelona in summer transfer window

Alejandro Grimaldo has admitted he could have joined either Real Madrid or Barcelona in the summer transfer window, only for both moves to fall through. The Bayer Leverkusen star revealed that Los Blancos opted for Alvaro Carreras instead, while discussions with the Catalan giants and Atletico Madrid also failed to materialise.

  • Grimaldo reflects on missed La Liga switch

    Leverkusen left-back Grimaldo was heavily linked with a return to Spain during the summer window, with both Madrid and Barcelona considering the 30-year-old as an option. Known for his dangerous set-pieces and attacking threat, the defender looked close to moving back to La Liga before the deals collapsed. Instead, Los Blancos opted for Carreras, while Barca trusted Gerard Martin.

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    Grimaldo: Talks with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico went nowhere

    The Spaniard explained that talks did take place but ultimately led nowhere, despite the speculation around his future.

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

    The defender also acknowledged Atletico’s interest, but again insisted nothing concrete came of it.

    "Atletico is the same; there have been talks, but practically nothing has happened. 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 benefit from failed move

    Despite missing out on a move to Spain, the former La Masia product has continued to thrive in Germany. He has already registered four goals and two assists in eight appearances this season, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking full-backs. His form has helped Die Werkself maintain their decent start domestically.

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    Future transfer to Barcelona or Madrid still possible

    Grimaldo’s current deal runs until 2027, but his performances ensure he will remain on the radar of top La Liga clubs. A return to Spain remains a possibility next summer, potentially on a cut-price deal. For now, though, his focus is on Leverkusen’s Bundesliga clash with Union Berlin this weekend after their midweek 1-1 Champions League draw against PSV.