Arsenal: 3 reasons why Alex Grimaldo would be a good left-back alternative

2. Versatility

It is a buzzword that often surfaces in transfer discourse and appears to be a factor in so much of the club’s summer activity, but versatility nevertheless remains a valuable characteristic of any new arrival and Grimaldo is someone who certainly fits the bill.

Although not protean to the same degree as Martinez, who can perform anywhere in defence in addition to the base of the engine room, Grimaldo is still an adaptable figure who is equally competent in left midfield and at full-back. This resourcefulness was demonstrated during his 38 appearances in the Champions League and Primeira Liga last season, where he split his time almost evenly between the two positions and accumulated 18 appearances on the left wing.

The competence to perform multiple roles is an important attribute for Arsenal- with White and Tomiyasu regularly moved around for cover last season – and Grimaldo’s specialist areas are both on the same side which suggests we would be signing a very capable player rather than an ineffective jack-of-all-trades.

He may not be the same multifaceted tactical weapon, but comfort at left-back and further up the pitch still gives the Gunners options and boosts the 26-year-old’s standing as a possible alternative.

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