Man City torn over Fabian Ruiz transfer as unusual factor could pause pursuit

Manchester City are showing an interest in Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz, but an unusual reason means they may have to wait another year to sign him, reports claim.

Fabian has played for Napoli since 2018, when they signed him from Real Betis. In the time since, he has alerted clubs elsewhere with his form. To date, Ruiz’s record for Napoli reads: 166 appearances, 22 goals and 15 assists.

However, his time at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona may be coming to an end. The midfielder has been linked with an exit, given that his contract expires in 2023.

Napoli are now ready to sell him if he does not sign a new contract. They could in fact freeze him out if he does not find a new club, according to sources such as Gazzetta Dello Sport and Il Mattino.

Now, Cadena Ser have listed Manchester City as an interested party for Fabian. However, it has been revealed that they have no intention of making a move this summer.

Originally, Napoli signed Ruiz as a successor to Jorginho, whom they sold to Chelsea in 2018. But before then, City had been in talks for the Italy international.

Napoli eventually pulled out of the deal and sent Jorginho to Chelsea instead, leaving City angry.

Therefore, senior figures for the Premier League champions do not want to negotiate with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis again, even if their technical staff may want Fabian.

Fabian Ruiz waiting game may not suit Man City

Hence, any pursuit of Fabian will have to wait until he becomes a free agent in 2023. But if Napoli follow their strict plan, he may have gone a whole season without playing by then.

Fabian Ruiz ready to leave Napoli as Arsenal interested

Fabian Ruiz is ready to leave Napoli after terrible contract offer and interest from clubs including Arsenal and Real Madrid

With that in mind, City would have to weigh up the benefits of a transfer for the 26-year-old.

Ruiz is a talented player, but it would be risky to sign him if he had been on the sidelines for a season. It may therefore be more likely for him to look elsewhere.

If he does secure a move to another club this summer, there is every chance that City could keep watching his progress.

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