IN SPORT.ES
It was more of an informal wondering than anything else but Barça have asked Benfica about the availability of Alex Grimaldo. During talks over a transfer deal for Jasper Cillessen, Benfica stated that Grimaldo would only leave if someone paid the €60m buyout clause in his contract. Once negotiations over Cillessen broke down, Barça spoke with Grimaldo's agent and they said he'd be available for around €40m.
Barça are continuing to search for a left back which can compete with Jordi Alba for a starting role. Grimaldo obviously started his career at La Masia before making a €1.5m move to Benfica.
HIGH MARKET VALUE
The truth is Grimaldo has never been on a list of priority signings for Barça but they've noticed his progress and his increased market value. Grimaldo could leave Benfica this summer but no one is willing to pay the current €60m asking price. There's interest from Italy and France as well as Atletico Madrid.
However, Barça won't be signing the left back and instead are keeping an eye on any future developments as they are due 15% of any future sale. Nothing is expected to happen with Grimaldo's future until the end of July but it's a situation that could net Barça a significant windfall as they aim to generate funds for new signings.