Real Madrid are keen on adding Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz to their squad in the summer transfer window.
Ruiz, who moved from Spanish club Real Betis to the Serie A last season, has been impressive so far in Naples.
As per ESPN, Madrid are one of a few elite European clubs who are keen on signing Ruiz, but are expected to face stiff competition from Barcelona and Manchester City.
The report states that Ruiz is interested in moving to Madrid and that Napoli could demand anywhere between €80 million and €100 million for the Spaniard.
Madrid were reportedly interested in him when he was a youngster and have monitored him closely since then.
Ruiz moved to Napoli after the Italian club triggered his €30 million release clause in his contract. The 23-year-old midfielder has been very good for Napoli since his move, scoring 7 goals and providing 3 assists last season, and 1 goal and 2 assists this season.
Ruiz’s contract with Napoli expires in 2023, having signed a four-year deal with the club when he joined them last season.
Should Real Madrid pursue Fabian Ruiz for that fee?
Ruiz is perhaps one of the brightest prospects from Spain in recent times, who has gone under the radar a bit, before exploding on the scene at Napoli. The central midfielder is an all-round midfielder who can move from one box to the other, while also showing great composure with his passing and dribbling.
The Spaniard averages 70.4 passes on average this season in Serie A and a pass completion rate of 89.8%. He has the vision and technique to open up opposing defences with his passes.
The 6’2″ midfielder is also a strong dribbler, who averages 1.6 dribbles per game this season from midfield while averaging 2.6 shots on goal. He also contributes in defence, making an average of 1.5 tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game this season.
Madrid should certainly pursue Ruiz as he is a player who can pass, dribble, defend, as well as chip in with a few goals. The 23-year-old has the potential to become even better and would fit in well in Madrid’s midfield alongside Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
The Spanish giants need to add players to their midfield as they have very few creative options in the middle of the park.
Ruiz could add quality and depth to the Madrid midfield, as well as the versatility and composure that Los Blancos desperately need if this season’s showings till now are any indicator.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored