Bayer Leverkusen have announced an agreement to sign Alejandro Grimaldo on a free transfer.
The left-back was reportedly a target for Arsenal amid rumours of Kieran Tierney’s potential exit this summer, while Fulham, Nottingham Forest, Borussia Dortmund and Nice were also linked with his signature.
But German club Bayer have won the race to land the 27-year-old from Benfica, ahead of his contract expiring next month.
“Alejandro Grimaldo is an agile, very strong full-back, tactically very well versed,” stated Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes.
“He is goal-dangerous and has a lot of experience and class. We are pleased that we were able to convince Alejandro of our ambitious concept for the coming years.”
Grimaldo came through the ranks at Barcelona and has spent several seasons in Lisbon, before signing for Europa League semi-finalists Leverkusen under coach Xabi Alonso.
“It is an exciting challenge,” said Grimaldo. “I played for seven years at a top European club, but it just excites me to show my strengths in the Bundesliga.
“For me, it is one of the best leagues in Europe, and in terms of the ambience and the atmosphere in the stadiums, certainly unique.
“The fact that a Bundesliga club like Bayer 04 has tried for me makes me very proud. I am sure that we will experience a fantastic time together.”
