Liverpool are keeping a close eye on Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz, who put in a solid performance in the middle of the park in their 2-0 victory against the Reds on Tuesday.
Also wanted by the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, the 23-year old could cost over £40 million next summer, according to reports from the Daily Mail.
So should Liverpool retain their interest in this midfielder?
Ruiz And His Growth
Having spent four years with the Betis senior side in La Liga, Ruiz only moved to Italy in 2018 under Carlo Ancelotti, and took no time to cement his place in the first team.
He started 31 games in all competitions for the Italian outfit last season, registering six goals and four assists and has started every game for the club this season.
A fleet-footed midfielder with the ability to control the tempo of the game, Ruiz is a strong presence in the midfield.
Playing in a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1 system, the 23-year old is adept at breaking up play and creating chances for his side but what makes him that much more attractive for Liverpool is his strength and ability to hold up play.
Unlike many silky Spaniards who wriggle their way through defenders, Ruiz is a more complete midfielder, happy to put in a shift for his side when needed.
He idolised former Barcelona star Xavi and though he is not as mesmerising, Ruiz is certainly a player that can win games for his side.
The former Betis man has two international caps and has enough experience to be a real asset for Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool.
A Good Option For Klopp
The Reds have a number of midfield options in their squad, some of who are even struggling for playing time. The likes of Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum are expected to be the first choice for Klopp while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita and James Milner are all waiting in the ranks for their chances.
But Ruiz adds a different dimension to this midfield. The Napoli midfielder adds a physical presence, can replace Henderson in the long run and at just 23, is only going to get better playing in a squad like Liverpool under a manager like Klopp.
He can also be an option to replace James Milner, who is in the final year of his contract at Merseyside.
Ruiz may not be the best midfielder up for grabs in the transfer market, but he is certainly a player who will improve the Liverpool squad and is an investment worth the risk for the club.