Sporting capture Leandro Grimi

AC Milan lower price of left-back; Caneira to follow?

Hot on the heels of the capture of Helder Postiga, Sporting have further strengthened their squad with the signing of left-back Leandro Grimi from AC Milan.

The defender spent an impressive loan spell at the Lisbon club in the second half of the season, but the Italians’ asking price had appeared to scupper Sporting’s hopes of signing the Argentine on a permanent deal.

However, negotiations have reached a satisfactory outcome, with the managing director of the Serie A giants, Ariedo Braida, confirming that a deal has been struck.

“Between Milan and Sporting everything’s agreed. If Sporting agree terms with the player, Grimi will be wearing green and white next season,” said the Milan director.

The Italian club were initially asking 3m euros to complete the transfer. Braida refused to disclose details of the final price, but revealed “I can say that it was great business for Sporting.” It is thought that a ‘first option’ for Milan on Sporting’s sought-after midfield star Miguel Veloso may have been written into the deal.

The news will be a huge boost for Sporting coach Paulo Bento. The defensive performance and cohesion of the team improved drastically from January onwards after Leandro Grimi came into the team and the left-back was known to be one of the Portuguese tactician’s priorities for 2008/09.

Caneira next target

After securing Rochemback, Postiga and Grimi, the Lions may not be finished in the transfer market. Another former player, Marco Caneira, is reportedly close to returning to Alvalade after a season at La Liga outfit Valencia.

Sporting are prepared to pay 1.5m euros for the utility defender, and negotiations are ongoing.