Arsenal Considering €7.5m Bid To Land Benfica Left-Back

Arsenal are ‘keeping tabs’ on Benfica left back Álex Grimaldo who could provide cover for Kieran Tierney.

Some reports have suggested the player could be available for under £7 million. 

As pre-season gets underway, Arsenal can be happy with the business they have completed so far. 

They’ve secured their marquee signing of Gabriel Jesus, which along with Eddie Nketiah’s contract renewal, addresses the striking department, the area in the squad most in need of reinforcement. 

Fabio Vieria represented a surprise deal for the Gunners, but one they clearly thought was too good to pass up.

Hopefully his performances will pleasantly surprise Arsenal fans as much as his quick move to North London. 

Matt Turner also seems to be a solid option as a backup for Aaron Ramsdale.

He also refused to sign the shirt of a Spurs fan, a spirit which will quickly endear him to Arsenal fans. 

However, this doesn’t seem to be the end of Arsenal’s business.

Next on the list appears to be a backup left back. 

Kieran Tierney is a superb defender but lacks the longevity to play out an entire season.

Particularly with the Europa League giving Arsenal more games to play this year. 

Nuno Tavares impressed at times last year, but was exposed defensively towards the end of the season.

If Arsenal are going to make that next step to Champion’s League football, then depth is crucial. 

Lisandro Martinez seems to have been Mikel Arteta’s preferred target for left back, but facing firm competition from Manchester United, it appears Arsenal may be looking elsewhere.

According to Portuguese newspaper Record Arsenal are ‘keeping tabs’ on Benfica defender Álex Grimaldo.

They are also suggesting Arsenal have already reached out to the player’s agent.

The 26 year old Spaniard has one year left on his contract and Benfica are said to be open to selling the player at a cut price deal of below £7 million. 

Grimaldo would add defensive solidity as a backup to Tierney but retain some of Tavares’ attacking prowess.

In 247 appearances for Benfica, Grimaldo has 19 goals and 50 assists. 

If the potential deal for Lisandro Martinez continues to drag on, it is possible that players like Grimaldo become more attractive for Mikel Arteta who will want to have his squad sorted by the time Arsenal make their trip to Selhurst Park on August 5th.