Bayern Munich Eyes Grimaldo as Future Full-Back Option

Bayern Munich has proactively commenced its planning for the 2026-27 season and beyond by identifying one of the most influential full-backs in both the Bundesliga and Europe for potential acquisition next summer. According to a report from the German publication Kicker, the reigning German champions are focusing their attention on Alex Grimaldo, who currently plays for Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen. The report indicates that Grimaldo’s name is increasingly being discussed within Bayern’s administrative offices on Sabener Street, as the club has already started monitoring his performance closely.

The likelihood of this transfer materializing remains uncertain. Earlier this year, Bayern Munich extended left-back Alphonso Davies’ contract until 2030, a move that illustrates the club’s confidence in the Canadian international’s ability to fully recover from his long-term anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and to regain the form that distinguished his breakout season during the treble-winning campaign of 2019–20.

During the summer transfer window, there were strong indications that Grimaldo would conclude his Bayer Leverkusen career, which began in 2023, by returning to Spain. Speculation suggested a potential reunion with former Bundesliga-winning coach Xabi Alonso, who had taken a three-year contract with Real Madrid, a club with a rich history of Champions League success. Although Madrid grappled with injury issues involving Ferland Mendy, they ultimately opted to sign Alvaro Carreras from Benfica for €50 million (£44m/$58m), who has started the season impressively.

In addition, there were rumors regarding a possible return to Grimaldo’s former club, Barcelona. Media reports suggested that the La Liga champions were keen on activating his €18 million (£16m/$21m) release clause to bolster their defensive lineup. However, financial constraints hindered any potential movement.

“There was always the possibility of going with Xabi, but in the end, it didn’t materialize,” Grimaldo stated in October. “They signed Carreras. There was also the possibility of going to Barcelona, which also didn’t occur. One must approach each challenge here with motivation. Options exist, and discussions take place, but if things don’t happen, it’s simply how it is meant to be.

“Atletico was similar; discussions were held, but nothing substantial emerged. In transfer markets, when left-backs are in demand, conversations occur with agents, but no commitments have developed.”

Despite missing out on a return to Spain, the 30-year-old Spaniard has emerged as a vital contributor for the 2023-24 Bundesliga champions. He has established himself as a formidable free-kick taker and is currently Leverkusen’s top scorer this season, netting seven goals and providing four assists in 15 matches.

“I did contemplate a transfer. However, ultimately, I decided to stay, and I believe that was the right choice,” he shared with Sky Germany in September. “I thought to myself: at least one year here will benefit me, so I will enjoy this season and give my all.”

As reported by BILD earlier this season, Bayer Leverkusen is keen to renew Grimaldo’s contract, which is set to expire in June 2027. There may be a strong possibility of the La Masia graduate exploring other opportunities next summer. Nonetheless, Leverkusen is eager to retain Grimaldo for the long term, especially as he has emerged as a leader in the dressing room following a significant exodus of players in the summer.

Meanwhile, uncertainty looms over the future of Portuguese international Raphael Guerreiro at Bayern, whose contract is in its final year and set to expire next summer. Kicker reported in October that discussions regarding Guerreiro’s future were held among the club’s management, although no definitive decisions were made. Bayern executives believe it is premature to engage in discussions about the versatile left-back’s future, given that the season is still in its early stages.

Although there is a risk of the 31-year-old leaving Bayern without a transfer fee, the club is not overly concerned. Interest from Serie A giants Juventus has been noted, but Bayern prefers to wait until the end of the season before making any conclusions regarding Guerreiro’s future.