Chelsea are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Bayer Leverkusen left-back Alejandro Grimaldo, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The potential pursuit comes as Marc Cucurella edges closer to leaving Stamford Bridge, with several top clubs circling the Spanish defender this window.
Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich have all shown interest in Cucurella, though Atletico Madrid are currently considered the frontrunners to secure his signature.
Chelsea’s failure to qualify for next season’s European competition has seemingly accelerated the situation, making Cucurella’s departure this summer increasingly likely.
Grimaldo, 30, joined Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer in 2023 after running down his contract at Benfica, and has since thrived at the BayArena under Xabi Alonso.
During his time in Germany, the Spaniard has won a Bundesliga title, a DFB Pokal, and a DFL-Supercup, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable attacking fullbacks.
This season, Grimaldo contributed an impressive 26 goal involvements, scoring 14 goals and registering 12 assists across 46 appearances in all competitions, while also helping his side keep 11 clean sheets.
Valued at around £17 million by Transfermarkt, the left-back is technically gifted, comfortable at left-back and left wing-back, and widely regarded as one of the best set-piece deliverers in world football.
Although Grimaldo’s contract runs until 2027, reports suggest the defender is open to leaving Leverkusen this summer in search of a fresh challenge.
A reunion with Xabi Alonso, who has been appointed as Chelsea’s new manager, could prove a significant factor in luring Grimaldo to Stamford Bridge.
Alonso worked closely with Grimaldo during their successful time together at Leverkusen, and is reportedly keen to bring the Spaniard to west London.
However, Grimaldo is not the only defender on Chelsea’s radar, with Nathaniel Brown and Andrea Cambiaso also identified as potential options to strengthen the backline.
Chelsea have not historically targeted experienced players since Todd Boehly’s takeover, making it intriguing to see how the club approaches this particular deal in the coming weeks.