Real Madrid 'begin Alex Grimaldo talks'

Real Madrid have reportedly opened talks with Benfica over a deal for Alex Grimaldo.

The 23-year-old has been in fine form for Benfica during the 2018-19 campaign, contributing seven goals and nine assists in 48 appearances in all competitions.

A number of clubs have been linked with the full-back, but according to reports in Spain, Madrid president Florentino Perez is negotiating a deal for the former Spain Under-21 international.

Los Blancos have had problems at left-back this season, with neither Marcelo nor Sergio Reguilon convincing for long spells.

Grimaldo came through the youth system at Barcelona and made close to 100 appearances for the club's B team before leaving for Benfica in 2015.