€20m Bayer Leverkusen defender eyed by Barcelona

€20m Bayer Leverkusen defender emerges on Barcelona radar, as Hansi Flick hunts a budget-friendly January addition.

Backup options have not provided adequate competition or reassurance either, which has left the coaching staff and management searching for potential reinforcements.

With defensive solidity a key component for any title challenge, this uncertainty in a vital defensive role poses a significant challenge for head coach Hansi Flick, especially as the season progresses and the stakes get higher.

The urgency for a dependable solution has led Barcelona to revisit former contacts and explore the transfer market closely for a cost-effective and technically suitable addition to their squad.

The player attracting Barcelona’s attention is Alejandro Grimaldo, a 25-year-old defender currently playing for Bayer Leverkusen, who also boasts a background in Barcelona’s La Masia academy, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Grimaldo had been on Barcelona’s radar before, with financial constraints previously preventing a move.

However, his current contract with Bayer Leverkusen includes a favorable clause allowing him to join a Spanish club for a fee estimated between €15 million and €20 million, presenting an affordable opportunity for Barcelona to reinforce this key position.

At present, Alejandro Balde’s decline in form, coupled with the lack of quality alternatives such as Gerard Martin, has made the left-back position a growing concern.

While Barcelona might ideally aim for higher-profile targets like Josko Gvardiol and Nuno Mendes, their high price tags make them less viable options.

Grimaldo brings several advantages, including his familiarity with Barcelona’s football philosophy and a smoother transition under Hansi Flick’s guidance.

Grimaldo himself remains keen to return to Barcelona, eager to rejoin the club where he developed as a youth player.

Whether this potential move materializes in the coming January transfer window or next summer depends on various factors, but it signals Barcelona’s clear intent to address their defensive woes and strengthen their squad with a pragmatic and strategic approach.