According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona and Real Madrid are set to go head to head in pursuit of Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz. Liverpool were linked with a move for the Spanish playmaker last month (via Calciomercato). However, the Reds will now have a real battle on their hands as both Spanish clubs are prepared to move in for the Serie A rising star.
Ruiz’s Magnificent Spell At Naples
It seems like both Barca and Madrid have stolen a march over the Merseyside outfit, but it won’t be an easy deal to orchestrate as Napoli would demand a fee in excess of €60m for their prized asset. Ruiz has made an impressive start to this campaign and has already put in a majestic cameo against the European champions last month.
The 23-year-old has played in eight matches for the Naples-based club this term and has scored one goal for them in all competitions. Ruiz is also one of the most talented midfielders in Europe and is highly regarded in Italy and Spain.
The former Real Betis academy graduate has also managed to secure three international caps for the Spanish national team, but he is yet to open his goal-scoring account for his homeland.
What Does The Spanish International Offer On The Field?
Ruiz is a moderately paced midfielder, but that doesn’t stop him from making some dangerous dribbles in the opposition half. He is an exciting playmaker who is not afraid to play a killer pass in the final third. The Spaniard is also a potent goal-threat from long range as he can strike the ball with a lot of power and precision. Furthermore, the Serie A rising star can also provide adequate cover at the back by making a few vital interceptions for his team.
However, Ruiz can be a bit vulnerable in the air. One can even argue whether he has the upper body strength to cope with the physical nature of English football. Either way, three of the biggest clubs in world football are after him. Jurgen Klopp currently has some talented, hardworking midfielders at his disposal. However, none of his current options shows enough invention with their passes going forward.
Is Ruiz Worth The Fight?
Hence, the Reds could benefit from acquiring a complete midfielder like Ruiz who can do a bit of everything at the centre of the park and has the potential to be a world-class playmaker someday. The Spaniard is well worth fighting for, so we can expect an intense transfer battle among the biggest clubs in Europe if he decides to leave Napoli next summer.
