Arsenal are showing an interest in Fabian Ruiz with PSG likely to consider offers, as Mikel Arteta steps up efforts to recruit a midfielder.
According to Caught Offside, Arsenal have added Fabian Ruiz to their list of potential midfielders. Mikel Arteta remains keen on adding a left-sided enforcer to his setup, as the Spaniard has emerged as one of his preferred targets, and PSG are likely to entertain offers.
Arsenal to target Fabian Ruiz?
Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to sign a new midfielder, with Mikel Arteta intent on bringing a left-footed star to play in that left-eight role. The Gunners have been weak in that area since the departure of Granit Xhaka, as the manager is only looking at specific profiles that add something extra to his midfield.
PSG’s Fabian Ruiz is a target, with the midfielder one of the star performers for Spain during their triumphant Euro 2024 campaign. While he was a key star for Luis de la Fuente, PSG boss Luis Enrique did not see him in the same light, as he was a bit-part player for them last season, making only 21 league appearances.
With PSG angling a move for Joao Neves and having got close to signing the Portuguese youngster, they might be willing to entertain offers for players like Ruiz. The 28-year-old Ligue 1 midfielder might be open to a new adventure, especially if Arsenal are in the mix for him, as his technical qualities will be seen as vital by Arteta.
Meanwhile, the report suggests that Arsenal are looking to make a loan approach with an option to buy at the end of the season. Whether PSG will be open to such an idea remains to be seen, as the story does point towards a €45 million asking price for the former Napoli star.
Mikel Merino is Arteta’s primary midfield target
While the interest in Ruiz is genuine, the 28-year-old Ligue 1 midfielder is not Arsenal’s primary midfield target but rather a contingent option. Mikel Merino is Arteta’s primary target for that midfield spot, with the fellow Spaniard bringing in more qualities that the Gunners boss seeks in that role.
Arsenal are set to approach Real Sociedad with an offer once they are in the clear with personal terms with Merino. As for Ruiz, he could emerge from the shadows and become Arteta’s primary target should Merino slip through his hands, as either one of those Spanish stars will likely improve the Gunners midfield and provide a good platform for some promising youngsters to develop in the background.
