Barcelona eyeing Alejandro Grimaldo after Hansi Flick’s call for new full-backs

Barcelona are considering a move to bring Alejandro Grimaldo back to the Camp Nou this summer, following a direct request from new manager Hansi Flick for reinforcements in the full-back positions.
According to reports from Sport, the Bayer Leverkusen left-back has emerged as one of the club’s top defensive targets, with Flick eager to see progress on the deal in July. The German coach has identified wide defensive depth as a pressing concern ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Grimaldo Could Return to His Roots
A product of La Masia, Grimaldo left Barcelona in 2015 without making a senior appearance but has since built an impressive career in Europe first at Benfica and now at Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.
Grimaldo was a standout performer under Xabi Alonso last season, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s domestic double and deep Europa League run. His form has not gone unnoticed in Spain, and his technical profile fits Flick’s tactical blueprint.
While there are currently no formal negotiations, Barcelona are monitoring the situation closely. Grimaldo is under contract with Leverkusen until June 2027, and the German club reportedly values him at around €40 million.
Flick’s Influence Growing in Barça’s Transfer Strategy
Since taking charge, Hansi Flick has begun to reshape Barcelona’s recruitment strategy. The German coach is said to be working closely with the board and has prioritized signing experienced full-backs.
In addition to Grimaldo, Barcelona are also keeping tabs on Denzel Dumfries, the Dutch international currently with Inter Milan. The 28-year-old right-back is another player reportedly on Flick’s shortlist to bolster both flanks of the backline.
Budget Remains a Constraint
Despite interest in several high-profile names, Barcelona’s ability to secure deals will largely depend on their financial flexibility. The club remains under pressure from La Liga’s financial regulations and may need to offload players before making major signings.
Still, Grimaldo’s potential return would represent both a sporting and symbolic acquisition, bringing back a homegrown talent now matured into one of Europe’s most consistent full-backs.