Real Madrid is turning up the heat on Fabian Ruiz
By Ben Sundock
Real Madrid is showing considerable interest in Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz, his agent confirmed this week. Can Los Blancos acquire the Liverpool target?
The competition around Europe to acquire the signature of former Real Betis midfielder Fabian Ruiz is serious. Since the 24-year-old is expected to leave Serie A this summer after just three seasons with Napoli, Real Madrid is stepping up their pursuit of the talented Spaniard.
With Liverpool, Manchester United, FC Barcelona, and Bayern Munich all labeled as potential suitors, it could be a big break for Los Blancos that Ruiz’s agent, Alvaro Torres, confirmed the club’s interest in his client.
“It’s obvious that there are many important clubs that have asked about him, he has spent three years at a high level,” Torres said during a radio interview.
“Yes, it’s true that Real has shown interest, we told Napoli. But right now, he must focus on his team. This summer, we will see. He is a midfielder who will mark an era.”
Seeing that Dani Ceballos’ future remains uncertain and with James Rodriguez likely on his way out of the Spanish capital as well, bringing in Ruiz could be the alternate if Real Madrid can not secure Donny van de Beek’s signature.
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van de Beek seems content to remain in the Netherlands with Ajax and the asking price for his services will surely exceed the amount president Florentino Perez is willing to pay. Meanwhile, Ruiz could be a bit cheaper even though he is valued at €60 million.
Ruiz has had a solid season with Napoli scoring two goals, providing two assists, and completing over 90 percent of his passes in league play. He has played nearly 2,000 minutes and is the glue that keeps the midfield together.
Much like Toni Kroos is for Real Madrid, Ruiz is the quarterback of the 10 outfield players in every match. The thought of having the German midfield maestro paired with the younger Spaniard is a tantalizing thought and one Zinedine Zidane will likely not want to pass up.
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Ruiz’s agent has said that nothing will be decided until the summer transfer window, but seeing that Serie A has no plans set to start the season back due to the spread of the coronavirus, Real Madrid could make a move within the month if they want.
I think it would be a worthwhile transfer since Luka Modric has two good seasons remaining at best, plus with Dani and James likely heading for the exit, reloading the midfield depth will be critical.