Arsenal is reportedly keen on signing Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as Mikel Arteta intensifies his search for a new midfielder.
According to sources, Ruiz has been added to Arsenal’s list of potential recruits, with Arteta particularly interested in acquiring a left-footed midfielder.
PSG may be open to offers, given Ruiz’s limited playing time under coach Luis Enrique, making only 21 league appearances last season.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Ruiz comes as they seek to strengthen their midfield, particularly in the left-sided position weakened since Granit Xhaka’s departure.
Ruiz, a standout performer for Spain during their Euro 2024 victory, has not been a regular starter for PSG, leading the club to consider selling him, especially with the impending arrival of Portuguese talent Joao Neves.
Arsenal is reportedly planning a loan move for Ruiz, with an option to buy at the end of the season.
However, it remains to be seen if PSG would accept this proposal, given their valuation of Ruiz at around €45 million.
Despite genuine interest in Ruiz, he is not Arsenal’s primary target.
Arteta is mainly focused on signing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, who he believes would bring more of the qualities he desires in a midfielder.
Arsenal plans to make an offer for Merino once personal terms are agreed upon.
However, if negotiations for Merino fall through, Ruiz could become Arsenal’s main target.
Either player would significantly bolster the team’s midfield and support the development of younger players.
Arteta’s search for a new midfielder is crucial in strengthening Arsenal’s squad, and the acquisition of Ruiz or Merino would be a significant step in achieving this goal.
The potential signing of Ruiz or Merino would not only address the left-sided midfield position but also provide a creative spark in the center of the park.
Both players possess exceptional vision, passing ability, and control, making them ideal candidates to dictate the tempo of the game.
Their addition would also enable Arteta to deploy a more flexible formation, allowing for greater creativity and flair in midfield.
Arsenal’s interest in Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Merino highlights the club’s commitment to strengthening their midfield.
While Ruiz is not the primary target, his potential signing would still significantly enhance Arsenal’s midfield options.
Arteta’s focus on acquiring a left-footed midfielder underscores the importance of addressing this positional weakness, and the acquisition of either Ruiz or Merino would be a significant step in achieving this goal.