Barcelona opinion: Should Barca sign Alex Grimaldo?
According to a report from Sport, Barcelona have made an enquiry about Benfica left-back Alex Grimaldo.
In fact, the Spaniard was nurtured in La Masia, Barca’s youth set-up and also played for the reserves team before opting to move to Portugal. The report also claims that Grimaldo will not be available at any price less than €40m.
The 23-year-old had a terrific season with the Portuguese outfit, racking up an impressive stat of 7 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.
And his valorous performances week in week out helped Benfica to clinch the League title and reach the quarterfinals of the Europa League. He has become an integral part of the Eagles over the course, winning 7 major titles.
Barca’s need for a quality left-back
The Catalans are in the transfer market for left defenders to lessen the burden of Jordi Alba. The Spaniard was easily one of the most industrious players under Valverde this season, featuring in 51 matches with an eye-catching stat of 3 goals and 17 assists.
However, the 30-year-old showed rustiness at times due to his high work rate, which led to a disastrous performance against Liverpool in the semi-finals of the Champions League.
The Spanish international wasn’t at his real best at Anfield, eventually costing his side a place in the finals. Juan Miranda had the opportunity to step up as a second-string for Alba but failed to impress Valverde.
Meanwhile, the Blaugrana also let go of another precious La Masia talent, Marc Cucurella. The 20-year-old enjoyed an excellent loan spell with Eibar, who in return decided to buy him permanently.
Should Barca consider the signing of Grimaldo?
The former Barca youngster has kept his success rate intact since his first game with Benfica. Though he went deprived of enough starts in the first two seasons, Grimaldo soon became a household name for the Portuguese outfit.
He possesses great pace down the flanks and holds a pass success percentage of 83 (Who Scored), which shows his adeptness at long as well as short passes.
Grimaldo’s physicality, work rate and sheer will to participate in the attacking and defensive third of the game make him one of the promising full-backs at present.
His presence also could provide enough competition for primary choice, Alba, to fight for his place. Furthermore, Grimaldo can enhance his chances of a national team call-up.
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Conclusion
Regardless of his price tag, Grimaldo is worth the bet and will certainly maximize Barca’s chances in the pursuit of Champions League title.