The left-back position remains a critical area of focus for Barcelona ahead of the summer transfer window. João Cancelo’s return to Al Hilal, combined with doubts over Alejandro Balde’s role as a starter, has intensified the club’s need to reinforce this position.
Among the targets was Spanish international Alejandro Grimaldo, who is set to return to La Liga after a decade abroad. Despite Barcelona’s interest, Atletico Madrid secured his signing by agreeing a deal worth around €10 million with Bayer Leverkusen. Personal terms between Grimaldo and Atletico have already been finalized, presenting the 30-year-old a chance to rejoin Spanish football after many years.
This outcome reduces Barcelona’s options in the left-back market, even though Grimaldo was not their top priority. His departure, however, removes a well-regarded player who could have been a potential replacement if Balde were to leave.
In parallel, Barcelona is engaged in cautious talks to make Cancelo’s stay permanent once his loan expires on June 30th. Negotiations with Al Hilal have been paused recently amid uncertainty over the player’s availability for next season.
Another candidate attracting attention is the promising young fullback Jorge Salinas from Racing Club. Despite competition from European clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, and Newcastle United, Barcelona is firm on not overpaying for the player. They aim to pay around €4 million, corresponding to his current release clause, while this figure could double or even quadruple depending on Racing’s promotion status and contract terms, complicating the prospect of a deal.
Should Barcelona proceed with Salinas, it is expected that he might spend another season on loan at Racing to continue his development.
The club’s strategy clearly avoids bidding wars for this position, opting for a measured financial approach even with growing interest from other teams.
Barcelona’s left-back situation is becoming increasingly delicate. With Cancelo’s uncertain continuation and Balde’s future questioned, the club must decide whether to rely on backup options, promising youngsters, or experienced reinforcements. Missing out on Grimaldo and complications around Salinas leave fewer alternatives, applying pressure on the club’s forthcoming decisions.
How Barcelona navigates these challenges will significantly influence their squad depth and competitiveness on the flank for the 2026/27 season.
