Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are lining up a move for Napoli and Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz in the summer transfer window.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are set to be involved in a three-way tussle to sign Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz in the summer later this year.
Ruiz has excelled in Italy since signing for Napoli from boyhood club Real Betis in 2018. A key component of the team at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, the 25-year-old has racked up 150 appearances for the Partenopei, registering a tally of 20 goals and 14 assists in the process.
Ruiz has been an integral part of Luciano Spaletti’s team that is challenging Inter Milan and AC Milan in the race for the Serie A title in the ongoing campaign. The midfielder, who has 15 caps for the Spanish national team, has caught the attention of several top clubs due to his progress in Italy, with Real Madrid among his admirers. Now, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are also vying for his signature.
Arsenal are in the market for an ideal midfield partner for Thomas Partey. Granit Xhaka continues to be a liability due to his recklessness on the pitch while Mohamed Elneny is out of contract in the summer. Albert Sambi Lokonga has impressed so far in his debut season, but another top-quality midfielder would be a necessary signing for Mikel Arteta’s side, making Ruiz a transfer target.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have had their eyes on the Napoli star for some time now. The Reds did not replace Georginio Wijnaldum following his departure in the summer, while Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Thiago Alcantara are not getting any younger. The latter has also struggled with fitness issues at Anfield, so someone of Ruiz’s ability could be an exciting addition to Jurgen Klopp’s side.
As for Manchester United, their midfield issues are no secret. While signing a proper holding midfielder remains a priority for Ralf Rangnick, the Red Devils also need a player who can offer some control and creativity in the middle, which the likes of Scott McTominay and Fred have been unable to provide.
In addition, with Paul Pogba’s contract expiring at the end of the season, Manchester United will need to replace the Frenchman. So a move for the 25-year-old Ruiz would be a logical step for the 20-time English champions. The report even indicates that United are in the lead in pursuit of the Spanish international.
Ruiz has eighteen months left on his contract, meaning he would be entering the final year of his deal in the summer. He is understood to be reluctant to sign an extension with Napoli, opening the door for an exit, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and several other clubs ready to pounce.
