Instead, the Bayer Leverkusen defender is reportedly close to completing a move to Atletico Madrid.
Grimaldo, who spent eight years in Barcelona's youth system before leaving the club in 2016, built his reputation abroad with Benfica and later Bayer Leverkusen. His performances in Germany helped him become one of Europe's most respected attacking full-backs, especially during Leverkusen's unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning campaign in 2024.
The Valencia-born left-back was also part of Spain's successful Euro 2024 squad and remains involved with La Roja at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, although he has mainly featured as a substitute.
Because of his Barcelona background and the club's previous interest in strengthening the left-back position, Grimaldo had often been linked with a possible return to his former side. However, those rumours have now faded, with Atletico Madrid moving quickly to secure his signature.
Reports in Spain suggest the transfer is close to completion, with Atletico expected to pay around 20 million euros for the experienced defender. The Madrid club reportedly made Grimaldo a priority after missing out on another former La Masia full-back, Marc Cucurella, who joined Real Madrid.
Barcelona are believed to have considered bringing Grimaldo back, but the club already have options in Alejandro Balde and Joao Cancelo. With their current squad planning focused elsewhere, the Catalan giants did not push forward with a move.
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