Liverpool reportedly want ‘spectacular’ midfield wizard once valued at £87m, fans should be buzzing – TBR View

Add as preferred source on Google

In the summer, there’s scope for Liverpool to sign a new central midfielder.

James Milner is out of contract in the summer.

Meanwhile, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are yet to extend deals currently set to expire in 2023.

In addition, Jordan Henderson turns 32 in June, so Liverpool should be looking at a long-term successor.

Last summer, Liverpool lost Georginio Wijnaldum to a free transfer.

Jurgen Klopp opted to promote from the Anfield ranks rather than sign a direct replacement.

But while Liverpool have coped well in midfield this season, they could well look to bolster in the summer.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Reds are keeping tabs on Napoli’s Fabian Ruiz.

The report, which came out just after the January window closed, claimed Liverpool are one of several clubs eyeing him.

As well as the Reds, Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Ruiz.

Newcastle reportedly made a move in January but Napoli turned down their £40million bid.

That said, they may not have as much interest in summer after landing Bruno Guimaraes.

Liverpool fans should be pleased about the prospect of Klopp landing Ruiz, as he’s a top player.

“One of the best creators in Serie A”

Ruiz started his career in Spain with Betis, helping them win the Segunda Division.

He then joined Napoli for £25million and has made 150 appearances, registering 20 goals and 15 assists.

Ruiz also helped the Italians win the Coppa Italia in 2020, and has earned 15 caps for Spain.

In April 2019, Goal.com wrote of Ruiz: “Like his childhood idol Xavi, he uses the ball excellently.

“But he is a very different player to the Barca and Spain legend.

“Fabian prefers to play centrally but feels just as comfortable on the left-hand side…

“Not least because of his quick feet and fine dribbling skills.”

Breaking the Lines recently described Ruiz as “one of the best creators in Serie A”.

His former Betis boss, Quique Setien, told Goal.com in February 2020: “I have a lot of affection for Fabian.

“He’s had a spectacular growth…. he is tremendously humble and a beautiful person.”

And in 2020, Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis told Corriere Dello Sport, via Goal.com: “If City or United or PSG showed up with €100milion (£87million), I would think about it.”