According to Jornal de Notícias, Newcastle are interested in signing Benfica defender Alex Grimaldo as Eddie Howe looks to keep the Magpies in the Premier League.
What’s the story?
Well, it seems as if Newcastle are unhappy with their left-back options.
Jornal de Notícias believe Howe is keen to strengthen that department, and has identified Grimaldo as a target with just nine days remaining of the transfer window.
The Magpies value the 26-year-old at €20m (£17m) according to the Portuguese news outlet, who do not state what Benfica think their No.3 is worth.
Grimaldo has a contract with Benfica until June 2023, so the Portuguese giants may feel inclined to sell before his value decreases in the summer, when he will be in the final 12 months of his deal.
Jornal de Notícias also claim that Newcastle are still monitoring Grimaldo’s teammate at Benfica, Darwin Nunez.
The Uruguay international has scored 20 goals in 25 games this season, and would be an incredible signing for the Magpies.
Newcastle face problem in Alex Grimaldo pursuit
If Newcastle want to sign Grimaldo, they must fend off a European giant for his signature.
Jornal de Notícias believe Barcelona are also keen to sign the left-back, who they sold in 2015.
Grimaldo never actually played for Barcelona’s first-team, but he did make 92 appearances for their B team.
Jordi Alba isn’t the player he once was, and Xavi seems keen to recruit a new left-back to challenge the Spain international.
That simply doesn’t bode well for Newcastle.
However, the Magpies have millions to spend, whereas Barcelona are actually in a terrible situation financially.
Therefore, if Newcastle throw money at Grimaldo, he may choose to reject his former employers in preference of move to the Premier League.
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