Bayer Leverkusen secure Gutierrez as Grimaldo replacement

Bayer Leverkusen have completed the signing of Spanish left-back Miguel Gutierrez from Napoli, bringing in a proven performer to fill the vacancy left by Alejandro Grimaldo’s departure to Atletico Madrid earlier this summer. 

The 25-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at the BayArena following a reported transfer fee of €26 million, marking the end of his single campaign in Serie A.

Gutierrez arrived at Napoli last season and quickly established himself as a reliable presence in the defensive line. 

He featured in 36 matches across all competitions, contributing to six clean sheets while adding one goal and one assist. 

His efforts helped the Partenopei secure a second-place finish in Serie A and claim the Supercoppa Italiana title. 

Statistical analysis of Napoli’s defenders during the 2025-26 campaign further underlined his value: he ranked second for chances created with 26, finished fourth for tackles won, and placed sixth for duels won with a total of 97.

The move positions Gutierrez as the direct replacement for Grimaldo, whose exit created an immediate need for quality depth and competition on the left flank. 

Leverkusen officials moved swiftly to secure the Spaniard, viewing him as a player capable of adapting to the high-intensity demands of the Bundesliga and the club’s ambitious style of play.

In comments made during an exclusive interview published on the club’s official website, Gutierrez stated that the club had really impressed him over the past few years and that Bayer 04 enjoyed an excellent reputation both in Italy and in his home country of Spain. 

He expressed enthusiasm about the next chapter of his career and the opportunity to contribute immediately.

The new signing has already linked up with his teammates for pre-season preparations. Leverkusen’s friendly schedule includes matches against Sevilla, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United as the squad builds fitness and cohesion ahead of competitive action. 

Their first official outing comes in the DFB-Pokal on 22 August against Wehen, followed a week later by the Bundesliga opener against newly promoted Elversberg. 

With Gutierrez now integrated, Leverkusen look well equipped to begin the new campaign on a solid footing at left-back.