Atletico Madrid have completed the signing of Spain international Alejandro Grimaldo from Bayer Leverkusen, the La Liga club announced on Tuesday, in a deal reportedly worth 20 million euros ($23 million).

The 30-year-old defender has signed a contract that will keep him at Atletico until June 30, 2030.

In a statement, the club praised Grimaldo’s versatility, highlighting his ability to operate not only at left-back but also as a wing-back, central midfielder and attacking midfielder. Atletico also pointed to his technical quality and vision as key strengths.

Grimaldo came through Barcelona’s youth academy before moving to Portuguese side Benfica in 2016. He now joins Atletico while representing Spain at the ongoing World Cup.

Grimaldo joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2023 and played a pivotal role in the club’s historic Bundesliga title triumph the following season under former coach Xabi Alonso.

Known for his attacking instincts, the left-back has also established himself as one of Europe’s top set-piece specialists. He has scored six direct free-kicks over the past three seasons, the joint-highest tally by any player across Europe’s five major leagues during that span.

Atletico Madrid had previously been linked with a move for Marc Cucurella, but after the defender joined city rivals Real Madrid earlier this month, the club turned its attention to Grimaldo to strengthen Diego Simeone’s squad.

Los Rojiblancos ended the 2025-26 LaLiga campaign in fourth place, finishing 25 points behind champions Barcelona. They also fell short in the Copa del Rey, suffering defeat to Real Sociedad in the final.