Premier League star Alex Jimenez has been dropped by Bournemouth as the club launch an investigation into alleged messages sent by him to a schoolgirl.
The Spanish right-back, 21, has been axed from his side’s clash with Fulham on Sunday morning (AEST) after screenshots of the alleged texts appeared on social media.
The messages allegedly show Jimenez conversing with a girl under the age of 18, before he sends a photo from his car with a suggestive caption.
Bournemouth’s club statement read: “AFC Bournemouth are aware of posts circulating on social media involving right-back, Alex Jimenez.
“The club understand the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated.
“As a result, Alex will not be included in the squad for tomorrow’s Premier League game against Fulham and the club will be making no further comment at this time.”
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola was asked about the matter during Friday’s press conference ahead of the Fulham clash.
He said: “The club has to do their investigations and see what has really happened.
“We will then move from there. I hope it’s not what we think.”
Jimenez spent a decade as a Real Madrid youth player, before breaking through in their reserve team four years ago.
After a loan spell with AC Milan, he left to join the Italian giants permanently in 2024.
He signed on loan for Bournemouth at the beginning of this season, before he made that move permanent in February — a deal that takes him through to 2031.
Jimenez also has four caps for Spain’s U21s, but is yet to make an appearance for the senior side.
He has played 32 times for Bournemouth this season — and appeared in all but four of The Cherries’ Premier League games.
Bournemouth sit sixth in the table after an impressive campaign — and are still pushing to qualify for Europe next season.
