Report: Arsenal leading race for Benfica defender Alex Grimaldo

Arsenal are in pole position to sign in-demand left-back Alex Grimaldo from Benfica, according to a report.

The 23-year-old has also attracted rumoured interest from the likes of Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, Napoli and Manchester City in recent months.

Grimaldo came through Barcelona's famed La Masia youth academy and has been a regular at the back for Benfica since swapping clubs in 2016.

With a transfer scramble expected for the ex-Spain Under-21s international at the end of the season, Mundo Deportivo reports that Arsenal are the side currently leading the way.

The Gunners need to strengthen in that troublesome position, though Atletico are also in need of cover and will reportedly provide Arsenal with their sternest competition for Grimaldo.