Real Madrid are wasting no time in reshaping their squad following their sobering El Clásico defeat, with significant movement already underway in their search for a new left-back.
At the centre of recent reports is Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo, who has emerged as a leading target for the Spanish giants. According to journalist Jorge C. Picón, the Spanish international is firmly on Madrid’s radar and could arrive at the Santiago Bernabéu as early as next month, potentially in time for the Club World Cup.
Grimaldo, a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, has established himself as one of Europe’s top-performing full-backs this season. His ability to contribute consistently in both attack and defence has played a key role in Leverkusen’s remarkable campaign under Xabi Alonso, and it’s this balance that appeals strongly to Madrid’s technical team.
With Ferland Mendy’s long-term future uncertain and Fran García still developing, the club view Grimaldo as a potential cornerstone of their defensive setup for years to come. The 28-year-old’s contract with Leverkusen runs until June 2027, meaning any transfer would likely require a significant outlay — though sources suggest Real Madrid are willing to act swiftly if the asking price is within reach.
While Grimaldo is seen as the priority, Los Blancos are also exploring alternatives. Manchester United’s Álvaro Fernández Carreras and Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato are being monitored, while former academy product Miguel Gutiérrez remains a viable, low-cost fallback option should negotiations stall elsewhere.
With Madrid’s recruitment strategy leaning towards long-term solutions and youth-driven reinforcement, the left-back position is shaping up to be a key focus in the club’s next phase of development — and Grimaldo may well be the man to lead that charge.