West Ham have joined the race to sign Benfica left-back Alex Grimaldo, according to insider ExWHUemployee.

The Spaniard is being considered by Hammers boss David Moyes as a potential target to provide competition for Aaron Cresswell but Ex suggests they will have to head off serious competition from Arsenal:

“Another name to keep an eye on, and Arsenal are in the mix for him, is a guy called Alex Grimaldo that plays for Benfica. Very highly rated left-back. We’ve looked at him in the past and not been tempted to make an offer because of competition. But Arsenal apparently potentially going to go for him, but worth keeping an eye on that deal as that could intensify as it is.”

Reports in the Portuguese media at the weekend had claimed that the Gunners had made an enquiry for Grimaldo so it seems West Ham’s rivals may already be pressing ahead with their plans to sign the defender.

It is believed that the 26-year-old may only cost €7m (£6m) and that is mainly due to the fact that the player has less than twelve months remaining on his contract at Benfica.

Grimaldo has been a regular starter for the Portuguese club since he made the move from Barcelona six and a half years ago. In 247 appearances, he has scored 19 goals and contributed an impressive 50 assists.