Real Madrid, Chelsea and Juventus eyeing former Barcelona defender on Bosman deal

Real Madrid have already secured the signing of Fran Garcia for the summer, with the former left-back set to return to the Santiago Bernabeu from Rayo Vallecano in a €5 million deal.

But, if a report from Mundo Deportivo is to be believed, Real Madrid could be in for another left-back, with SL Benfica’s Alejandro Grimaldo understood to be a subject of interest at the capital club.

Apart from Real Madrid, the report states that clubs like Chelsea, Juventus, and Valencia are also interested in signing the former Barcelona defender who will be a free agent in the summer transfer window.

Grimaldo has been at Benfica for over seven years now, having departed Barcelona in search of regular game-time. The 27-year-old has thrived in Portugal, racking up impressive numbers season after season, helping his team stay on top or close to the top regularly in the domestic competitions.

This season, Grimaldo has managed a tally of five goals and 11 assists from 41 appearances across all competitions for Benfica. The Portuguese giants are believed to be keen on renewing the Spaniard’s contract, but he could be on his way out, with no shortage of suitors.

Real Madrid have Ferland Mendy as their only natural left-back at the moment, with Garcia set to arrive to provide competition.

However, it must be noted that several club officials are allegedly unhappy with Mendy’s attacking ability and contributions. And with talks over his renewal not progressing, a sale could be on the cards.

That is where Grimaldo might enter the picture. The 27-year-old has experience at the highest level, has proven his pedigree, and would be arriving on a Bosman deal.

It, however, remains to be seen whether Real Madrid’s interest in the former Barcelona star is concrete. In case it is, Los Blancos would still have to beat off competition from heavyweights like Chelsea and Juventus.