Arsenal transfer boost as Fabian Ruiz rejects new Napoli contract with 26-year-old also wanted by Newcastle
ARSENAL transfer target Fabian Ruiz has reportedly rejected a new Napoli contract.
The Gunners have been long-term admirers of the 26-year-old and are in the hunt for a central midfielder this summer.
And according to Il Mattino via GIFN, the Gunners have been handed a massive boost in the pursuit of Ruiz with the Spaniard said to have rejected a new contract offer from club Napoli.
Fellow Premier league outfit Newcastle are said to be keen on acquiring Ruiz's services to.
But the report states that Ruiz has NO interest in joining the Magpies.
Arsenal may face competition from Ruiz's homeland, though.
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Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona are said to be interested in the £17million-£25m man.
On interest from Real and Barca, Ruiz said: "It’s flattering to hear about these clubs' interest in me, that's for sure.
"Right now, I only think of Napoli, I am very comfortable here and we have big challenges ahead.
"The idea of returning to Spain in the future is always present: it is my home."
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Should Arsenal miss out on Ruiz, boss Mikel Arteta has a number of other transfer targets he could pursue.
Football.London are reporting that Wolves' Ruben Neves and Leicester City's Youri Tielemans are potential alternatives.
But both could cost considerably more than Ruiz due to their vast experience in the English top flight.