Arsenal representatives have met with Fabian Ruiz’s agents ahead of a potential summer move for the Napoli midfielder.

The Mirror report that Arsenal are running provisional checks on Fabian Ruiz ahead of the summer, meeting with his representatives to learn his demands.

Ruiz has a contract with Napoli until 2023, and he’s turned down the chance to extend, so he should be available for transfer at a reasonable price.

The Mirror claim Napoli want around £16m, and the player wants a four-year deal.

Mikel Arteta is a big fan, though Barcelona and Real Madrid are also lurking.

A left-footed progressive passer and ball carrier who chips in with a fair few goals and assists considering his deeper midfield position, Ruiz would presumably be an alternative to – or replacement for – Granit Xhaka.

Ruiz has nine direct goal contributions in 25 games this season, and he ranks highly for pass completion and shot-creating actions for his position.

Arsenal need to sign at least one midfielder in the summer, but they arguably need to bring in two, particularly with the rumours about an AS Roma bid for Xhaka.

It seems any potential Arsenal move for Ruiz is still in the early stages, and they face strong competition.

But it’s an achievable deal for a player in a position of need, so I definitely wouldn’t write it off.