Sporting tie up Leandro Grimi deal

Argentine left-back signs four-year contract

After over a month of difficult negotiations, Sporting have finally reached agreement with AC Milan over the transfer of left-back, Leandro Grimi. The Lisbon club 2.5 paid million euros for 60% ownership of the player, with Grimi putting pen to paper on a four-year contract.

The Argentine defender played for the Lisbon club in the second half of last season, making an excellent impression during a 5-month loan spell. Coach Paulo Bento made it clear he wanted the player in his squad, and Grimi himself stated he was desperate to stay at Sporting, even reportedly rejecting an offer from an un-named Premiership side.

“I’m happy, very happy,” said Grimi. “When this negotiation phase dragged on I was worried the deal wouldn’t go through. But my wish was to play for Sporting. I know there was talk of a move to a Premier League club, but I always wanted to return to Sporting.

“I know Milan made a big effort to accept the conditions Sporting wanted, which at first they did not agree with. For this reason I am grateful to the directors of the two clubs.”

When asked why he had set his heart on a move back to Lisbon Grimi answered, “because I was always treated well there, because I had great support, because I enjoyed a great six months, because the city if very beautiful and I had no problem adapting. I hope everything continues like that now.”

As for the other players Sporting have contracted – Marco Caneira, Helder Postiga, and Fabio Rochemback – the Argentine has no doubts that the Lisbon club are building a strong squad.

“They are great acquisitions, but names do not win anything. We have to work hard to win the title.”