Man United scouts watch full-back impress for Benfica
Published:
Manchester United scouts were in attendance as Benfica left-back Alex Grimaldo pressed his case for a future at Old Trafford against Feirense.
The 21-year-old scored as the Eagles eased to a 4-0 win over their Primeira Liga rivals, curling in a stoppage-time free kick that opened his account for the campaign.
It has been local rivals Manchester City that have been most often linked with the pursuit of the former Barcelona youth, but it now appears that the Red Devils are muscling in.
The Daily Mail suggest a bid will be launched after Jose Mourinho’s talent spotters cast an eye over Grimaldo, but don’t anticipate the player’s staggering £51m buy-out clause to be met.
Instead, Ed Woodward and co will attempt to talk the Portuguese powerhouse down from their valuation.
The Spaniard only joined Benfica last January, having made 92 appearances for Barca’s B Team since 2011.
Since arriving in Portugal, the Valencia native has turned out 14 times for Benfica with nine of those coming this season.
In seven league appearances thus far, the left-sided defender has added three assists to the goal he grabbed against Feirense.
Should he make a hasty switch to United, Grimaldo would have to tussle with Luke Shaw for game time. However, having deputised for the immovable Jordi Alba at the Nou Camp, the youngster will be no stranger to fighting for his place.
After drawing with Stoke at home last time out, Man United have slipped to 16/1 to win the Premier League this season.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
