Barcelona open door for return of former La Masia prospect – report | OneFootball

According to Fichajes, Barcelona are once again turning their attention to a familiar face, namely, Alejandro Grimaldo, as the former La Masia graduate has emerged as a serious contender to become the club’s first signing of the summer.

With questions lingering over the depth and consistency of the left-back position, Barça see Grimaldo as a smart, experienced, and stylistically aligned option to bolster the squad.

Grimaldo’s journey from Barcelona’s academy to becoming one of Europe’s most reliable left-backs has been long and impressive. His performances at Benfica established him as a top-tier full-back, and his move to Bayer Leverkusen elevated his profile further.

Under Xabi Alonso, the 29-year-old played a crucial role in the German club’s historic double-winning campaign, securing both the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal.

A good addition for Flick?

While Grimaldo’s form has seen a minor dip this term, he remains one of the most creative and attacking-minded full-backs in European football.

Alejandro Grimaldo is back on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Oliver Hardt/Getty Images)

His ability to surge forward, deliver precise crosses, and contribute goals fits seamlessly with Barcelona’s tactical blueprint under Hansi Flick.

Barcelona are also factoring in his experience and leadership, especially in high-pressure scenarios. At 29, he is at the peak of his footballing maturity, making him an attractive short-term and medium-term option for the club.

Grimaldo has not dismissed the idea of a return to Spain either. “I’ve never closed the door on that. Leverkusen is a very strong team, but my dream is to return to Spain. It’s an idea I’ve had in my head for a long time,” he said in a recent interview.

Despite being under contract with Leverkusen, the lure of returning to the Camp Nou, this time as a seasoned professional rather than a promising youth, could sway his decision.

His emotional ties to the club, combined with the chance to be part of a new sporting project under Flick, might be enough to seal the deal.