Barcelona to sign Benfica’s Alex Grimaldo. According to rumors in Fichajes, Alex Grimaldo of Benfica has been chosen by Barcelona as a stand-in for seasoned left-back Jordi Alba. The Blaugrana have narrowed down their left-back choices as they search for Alba’s long-term replacement. In their list of candidates, Grimaldo has emerged as the top choice.
According to the source, Jordi Cruyff, the sports advisor for Barcelona, is a major fan of the Spaniard and is prioritizing getting him back to Camp Nou. Grimaldo progressed through the Catalan giants’ youth system, although he was never able to make the first squad. In 2006 and 2008, he spent two years of his youth career playing for Valencia after switching from Atlético Valbonense.
The Spaniard signed with the Blaugrana in 2008, and from then until 2015, he played 92 times for FC Barcelona Atlètic. In quest of consistent first-team action, he left the Catalan club in 2015 and joined Benfica. In the Estadio da Luz, he found it.
Over the years, Grimaldo has been a crucial member of the Eagles, standing out for his great consistency. The Spaniard, who is well-known for his exceptional crossing skills and versatility at both ends of the field, has long been connected with several elite teams.
He has made 286 total appearances for Benfica, contributing 58 assists and 24 goals in the process. The 27-year-old Grimaldo has played in 37 games this year across all competitions and has already made a positive impact with five goals and eight assists.
As the Spaniard’s contract expires this summer, Barcelona, which is having financial difficulties, would be wise to sign him up for free. However, Juventus is expected to offer the Blaugrana stiff competition in the race to sign the offensive full-back.
Samuel Umtiti, a French defender, may return to Barcelona’s Camp Nou season after slowly regaining form in Serie A this year, according to reports. The Catalan giants are considering the center-return back after being impressed by his recent improvements, according to the Spanish publication Sport.
The defender who won the 2018 FIFA World Cup has been quite good since moving to Lecce on loan last summer. He has played for the Serie A team in 12 games so far this season, including their past nine straight Serie A contests.
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