Arsenal, Manchester United 'keen to sign Napoli's Fabian Ruiz'

Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly both interested in signing Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz during this summer's transfer window.

The 26-year-old was again a key player for his Italian club during the 2021-22 campaign, making 38 appearances in all competitions, contributing seven goals and five assists in the process.

There has been a host of speculation surrounding the Spain international's future over the last couple of years, with both Real Madrid and Barcelona said to be long-term admirers.

Ruiz only has little over 12 months left to run on his contract in Naples, which could lead to him moving clubs during this summer's transfer window.

According to journalist Ekrem Konur, both Arsenal and Man United want to bring him to the Premier League in the upcoming market.

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A recent report claimed that Napoli valued Ruiz in the region of €80m (£68m) despite his contract situation, although it is thought that he could be available for around €50m (£42.5m).

The Spaniard moved to his Italian club from Real Betis in 2018, and he has made 166 appearances for the Blues in all competitions, contributing 22 goals and 15 assists in the process.

During the 2021-22 campaign, he scored seven goals and registered four assists in 32 Serie A appearances, in addition to featuring on five occasions in the Europa League.

Man United will sign at least one new central midfielder this summer, with Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba both preparing to leave the club on free transfers at the end of June.

Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong is thought to be a leading target for the club, but the Netherlands international has signalled a desire to remain with his Catalan outfit.

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Arsenal recently signed Mohamed Elneny to a new contract, but the Gunners were short of options in the middle of midfield last season, which could lead to them boosting their squad in that area this summer.

The Gunners are also planning to bring at least one new forward to the club, and it remains to be seen how much money Mikel Arteta has to spend, with the team missing out on Champions League football for next term.

Ruiz made 59 appearances for Real Betis before arriving at Napoli, while he has also been capped on 15 occasions by Spain, with his last outing for the national team coming at Euro 2020.

The midfielder has failed to make the La Roja squad since last summer's European Championship, though, and is again absent for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches.