Reports: Liverpool eye 22-year-old Spanish left-back
What's the rumour?
According to Transfermarketweb (via Express), Liverpool are eyeing a move for Benfica left-back Alex Grimaldo. The Spaniard reportedly has a £53million release clause in his existing contract.
In case you didn't know...
Alex Grimaldo is a product of Barcelona's La Masia and has played almost 100 games for the Barcelona B-team as well. He made the switch to Benfica in January 2016 and has evolved into a promising player.
Known most notably for his pace and dribbling capabilities, as well as decent defensive attributes, Grimaldo is also capable of providing threatening deliveries from set-piece situations too. His current deal with the Portuguese giants runs until the summer of 2021.
The heart of the matter
For all their attacking prowess this season, Liverpool's defenders have come under constant criticism from fans and pundits alike owing to their dismal performances very often. The signing of Virgil van Dijk in January has helped them improve but there are question marks over some of their defenders.
Alberto Moreno could potentially leave the club this summer in search of regular first-team football and even though Andrew Robertson has stepped up brilliantly at left-back, Klopp is exploring the possibility of adding another player to shore up their defensive options.
As a result, Grimaldo has been eyed by Liverpool and they are reportedly interested in making a move for the 22-year-old.
Rumour rating/probability - 4/10
Not many sources have reported the news and at the moment, it can be classified only as speculation and nothing more.
Video: Grimaldo in action this season
Author's take
Even if Moreno leaves the club, Liverpool still have quality options in their squad. Joe Gomez is adept at playing the position despite having a preference to central defence and Robertson's displays this term have cemented his place as their starting left-back.
With that in mind then, it would be wise for the club to strengthen elsewhere in their side - not spending heavily on another fullback.