Alejandro Grimaldo set to join Atletico Madrid despite Chelsea links
Speculation has grown around Cole Palmer potentially emulating Florian Wirtz, who earned a Premier League-record move to Liverpool on the back of his individual success. The creative engine for Leverkusen’s title-winning campaign largely came from Alejandro Grimaldo, who delivered 10 goals and 13 assists in the league.
Grimaldo has been subject to intense transfer talk, with Atletico Madrid emerging as a strong contender to seal a deal. Reports indicate Atletico are negotiating with Bayer Leverkusen over Grimaldo, with negotiations centering on a price around €25 million including bonuses from Bayer, while Atletico are aiming for a figure closer to €18–20 million, with a low fixed base of roughly €10–13 million. The discussions are ongoing, and favorable relations between the clubs could help push the arrangement over the line. Grimaldo is keen on returning to Spain and is reported to be excited by the prospect of wearing Atletico’s shirt.
Atletico Madrid have also been linked with other targets in the past, including players who had previously drawn Chelsea’s interest.
Chelsea looking to sign a new defender this summer
Chelsea are exploring options to bolster the defense this off-season. While Jorrel Hato remains a part of their plans, the club appears to be seeking additional left-back options ahead of the new campaign.
There has been talk of a potential return for Lewis Hall, who left Chelsea for Newcastle United two years ago. For a deal to happen, both sides would need to mend a strained relationship from earlier signaling that Chelsea did not fully back him at the time.
Securing a new left-back would signal Chelsea’s intent to strengthen the squad and demonstrate their ability to attract top talent even without European football in the upcoming season.
