Arsenal got offered the chance to sign Alejandro Grimaldo in the summer but decided to pursue a deal for Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Fabrizio Romano has told Caught Offside that Arsenal had the chance to sign Alejandro Grimaldo but passed up the opportunity. The Benfica left-back is a hot property in the coming windows as several top clubs are chasing the Spaniard.
Alejandro Grimaldo made a name at Benfica for his blistering displays from the left-back position. The defender has been a target for several sides in the summer after entering the final year of his contract.
Benfica are hoping to renew his deal at the club as manager Roger Schmidt wants to continue with the left-back. But the 27-year-old Spanish defender wants a more significant challenge and could look to move on a free transfer.
The Portuguese outfit will want to hold on to the 27-year-old Spanish defender after their finish as group winners in the UEFA Champions League. But things could change in January. Grimaldo will leave on a free transfer in the summer, but Benfica could get some money if they sell him in the next window.
🚨 @FabrizioRomano: “[Alex] Grimaldo was offered to Arsenal last summer but they decided to proceed with Zinchenko as their priority target. Now many clubs are following him as it’s a big opportunity on the market.” [@caughtoffside] #afc pic.twitter.com/gqSPLMONrN
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) November 2, 2022
Barcelona and Juventus are keen to sign the 27-year-old Spanish defender and may pursue a deal if an opportunity arises in January. Grimaldo would undoubtedly jump at the idea of signing for a big club.
Arsenal and Chelsea also reportedly hold an interest. However, it is doubtful the London duo would pursue it. The Gunners had the chance to sign the 27-year-old Spanish defender in the summer but passed up the opportunity.
Fabrizio Romano explained the situation with Grimaldo and links to Arsenal. He said, “Grimaldo got offered to Arsenal last summer, but they decided to proceed with Zinchenko as their priority target,”
“Now many clubs are following him as it’s a big opportunity on the market, but there are no negotiations ongoing yet; Juventus have sent their scouts to follow Grimaldo in the last few months.”
Arsenal made the correct decision to pursue Zinchenko instead of other targets. The Ukrainian utility man has become a key member of Mikel Arteta’s setup. As for Grimaldo, he will get his chance, with Romano insisting Juventus have been keeping tabs on his situation.
