Arsenal have hopes of signing Fabian Ruiz this summer – and if he does leave Napoli, he may well do it as a Serie A title winner.
The Mirror reported earlier this month that Arsenal representatives have now met with Ruiz’s agents ahead of a potential summer deal.
Ruiz is now inside the final 18 months of his contract at Napoli and could now be sold this summer before he leaves for free.
A £16million asking price is believed to be on Ruiz’s head, which should fit into Arsenal’s budget.
With Mikel Arteta allegedly feeling that Ruiz is perfect for Arsenal, the Spaniard could emerge as a prime target for the Gunners.
For now though, Ruiz has to focus on Napoli and attempting to win the Serie A title.
On Sunday, Napoli travelled away to Lazio for a huge clash in their pursuit of top spot.
Lorenzo Insigne’s opener put Napoli ahead, only for Pedro’s 88th-minute equaliser seemingly rescuing a point for Lazio.
There was one last twist though, as with 94 minutes on the clock, Ruiz swept an inch-perfect strike into the net.
This was another goal from outside of the box for Ruiz, whose goal sparked wild scenes at the Stadio Olimpico.
Players, substitutes, staff and manager Luciano Spalletti all ran towards the travelling Napoli fans to celebrate a dramatic winner.
Napoli now move top of Serie A with 57 points, ahead of AC Milan on goal difference after a huge win.
Ruiz will be relied upon for more of these magic moments, but each one will make a move to Arsenal seem even more likely come the end of the season as Arteta chases a major midfield addition.
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