Arsenal eye move for cut-price Lisandro Martinez alternative

Arsenal have reportedly made an enquiry for Benfica left-back Grimaldo as Manchester United move ahead in the race for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez.

Mikel Arteta is on the search for cover at left-back for the injury-prone Kieran Tierney, with Nuno Tavares having struggled while deputising last season.

Ajax’s Martinez is a primary target for the north London club who are said to see the versatile defender primarily as a left-back, but the Gunners are facing strong competition from United for the player’s signature.

Although Arsenal have submitted three bids for the Argentina international, recent reports have indicated United are now the strong favourites to sign Martinez.

The 24-year-old is said to be keen on a reunion with Erik ten Hag, who he played under at Ajax.

Now, Portuguese publication Record report that Arsenal have made contact with Benfica and Grimaldo’s representatives over a move for the left-back.

The report states that the Portuguese club would be looking for a fee between £6-7million for the 26-year-old, although Arsenal feel that fee is high.

Benfica are said to have been considering letting Grimaldo go for free as his relationship with the club has not been good, and due to the fact his contract expires in 2023.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are set to announce the arrival of Gabriel Jesus imminently, after the striker was pictured at the Emirates Stadium earlier this week.

The Gunners have agreed a deal worth £45m to sign the Brazil international from Manchester City.

MORE : Paul Merson predicts ‘trouble’ for Mikel Arteta if Arsenal ‘fail again’ next season

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