In an attempt to strengthen their midfield, Real Madrid is reportedly keeping a close eye on Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz, according to a report from SPORT.

Madrid’s midfield has been without support since Toni Kroos left at the beginning of the season. Due to injuries to important players like Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, the squad was left without the spark of creativity they needed, which made the situation worse.

The team has struggled to find a replacement for the nimble and adaptable midfield player they require to dictate play, distribute it both short and long, and hold onto possession.

While players such as Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde excel in their duties, none of them have the particular abilities needed to control the midfield in this manner.

Although they both have restrictions, Luka Modric and Arda Guler are closest to meeting the requirements. Modric is too old and has lost the endurance needed for such a physically demanding role, and Guler is too young and inexperienced at just 19 years old.

Additionally, both players are more suited for offensive than defensive positions. Real Madrid has been searching the market as a result, taking into consideration players like Vitinha of PSG and Rodri of Manchester City. But as of late, Fabian Ruiz has been a formidable contender.

With his appearances for Spain, the 28-year-old has wowed and shown off the skills that have set him apart. When he first got Real Madrid’s attention in 2018 at Real Betis, his career began.

Madrid was first interested in signing him, but they were hesitant. Napoli moved in and paid €30 million to acquire him, making it the most expensive transfer in the club’s history.

Strangely, while he was coaching Napoli, Carlo Ancelotti—who is currently manager of Real Madrid—pushed for his signing.

Ruiz flourished at Napoli before joining PSG in the summer of 2022 for a fee of €22.5 million, representing yet another chance lost by Real Madrid.

Ruiz, whose contract at PSG expires in 2027 and whose market worth is presently €35 million, has emerged as a vital figure under Luis Enrique.

But with the deteriorating relations between the two teams, a move to Madrid now looks doubtful, and Madrid might have lost out on Ruiz permanently.