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Bayer Leverkusen wing-back Alejandro Grimaldo has reignited talk of a possible move back to Spain ahead of his first-ever World Cup appearance, reaffirming his dream of playing again in La Liga. In an interview with the media, the former Barcelona academy graduate made it clear that representing a top La Liga side remains one of his major career ambitions, which he hopes to achieve sooner rather than later.

Grimaldo reaffirms his Spanish aspirations

Although Grimaldo has become a key figure for Bayer Leverkusen, he has consistently spoken of his affection for Spanish football. During a media interaction with the Spanish national team, the 30-year-old discussed his professional journey and his determination to eventually play in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

“After spending so many years in professional football, I have learned that transfer rumours are part of the game,” Grimaldo said. “I have always said that I want to return to La Liga. That is one of my personal goals. I am very happy at Leverkusen, but my wish to return to La Liga has never changed – and one day, I will make it happen.”

Barcelona connections and Leverkusen success

His remarks have once again sparked speculation about a potential comeback to Barcelona, the club where he honed his skills at the renowned La Masia academy. Despite having established himself as one of the most dynamic and attack-minded full-backs in world football, the allure of Camp Nou continues to attract discussion in the Spanish media.

Currently, Grimaldo is tied to a contract with the German champions until 2027, making him a highly valued member of the squad. Nevertheless, his repeated mention of a return to Spain suggests that Bayer Leverkusen might face challenges in retaining their vice-captain in the coming seasons.

A long-cherished dream still pending

Interestingly, despite his impressive spells with Benfica and now Leverkusen, Grimaldo has never featured in La Liga. He departed Barcelona’s B team for Portuguese giants Benfica in 2016, and he remains determined to complete that missing chapter of his career before he retires.

In a recent conversation with Spanish outlet AS, Grimaldo reiterated his stance, saying: “That remains my goal, and if it doesn’t happen now, it will still be my goal next year, and if not, then the year after. I want to play for a major club in Spain, and I believe the league suits my style perfectly.”

Missed opportunities in La Liga

Grimaldo was strongly linked with several top La Liga clubs during last summer’s transfer window. Despite continuous speculation about a possible move back to Spain, the full-back stayed with Bayer Leverkusen and continued as one of the team’s standout performers.

Reflecting on the interest from Spain, Grimaldo revealed that potential moves to Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid didn’t materialise beyond preliminary talks. “There was always the possibility of joining Xabi Alonso, but in the end, it didn’t happen,” he said, referring to Real Madrid’s pursuit of Álvaro Carreras instead.

He also spoke about discussions with Barcelona, admitting, “If it doesn’t happen in the end, it’s because it wasn’t meant to be.”

As for Atletico Madrid, Grimaldo confirmed that talks took place but “practically nothing happened,” highlighting that discussions in the transfer market often fail to result in actual deals.