Transfer expert Rudy Galetti has revealed that Newcastle United are one of the teams 'most interested' in signing Benfica left-back Alejandro Grimaldo.
The Lowdown: Left-back issues
Matt Targett started the season off as Eddie Howe's number one left-back, but has been limited to just 25 minutes of football in the St. James' Park outfit's last five games in the Premier League, not even coming off of the bench in the last two (Transfermarkt).
Dan Burn, who is more of a central defender by trade, has been playing ahead of Targett at left-back in recent matches, suggesting that there could be an issue in that position going forward.
The Latest: Grimaldo interest
Taking to Twitter, Galetti has revealed that the North East club, as well as Juventus, are 'most interested' in Grimaldo, who could leave Benfica next year:
"Alejandro #Grimaldo could leave #Benfica in 2023. Like last May, the clubs most interested in the left-back are #Juventus and #Newcastle. Now, the Italian team is ready to make a first contractual proposal to the Spanish player."
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The Verdict: Get it done
With uncertainties over Targett at left-back, this is a deal that the Tynesiders should be looking to get done in 2023.
Given that his contract expires in the summer, they would be able to sign Grimaldo for a cut-price deal in the January transfer window, or could wait until the summer to sign him as a free agent.
The 27-year-old is vastly experienced at the highest level, having played over 250 times for Benfica, including featuring in all five UEFA Champions League group matches this season, scoring one goal and making two assists (Transfermarkt).
Interestingly, Grimaldo actually shares the same agent as Howe, so this is a deal that could accelerate quickly on the right terms.