PSG hijack another Real Madrid player

Karan Tejwani

8 Aug 2022 14:29 BST
3 min read

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain haven’t been on the best of terms recently, and the relationship has taken a further turn as Fabian Ruiz is set for a move to the French capital.

Article continues under the video

The two clubs had a long battle over Kylian Mbappe at the start of the summer, as Real Madrid chased the Frenchman for long, before he decided to extend his stay at PSG for a further three years.

That saga ended on disappointing terms for the European champions, and after relations were soured during their Champions League clash last season, keeping Mbappe felt like a win for the Parisians.

Now, they’ve secured another success, as Ruiz is set to leave Napoli for Paris, with Real Madrid previously interested in the player but unwilling to make a move.

PSG get one over Real Madrid

The Spaniard has been a Napoli player since 2018, and Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has been an admirer of the player, having had him at the Serie A club when he managed there until his sacking in 2019.

Ancelotti was reportedly keen on reuniting with his former midfielder at the Santiago Bernabeu, but Real Madrid have not made a move, and PSG have swooped in for the player.

Earlier in the window, there was also interest from Manchester United, but there were no solid offers until that of PSG’s, who have been keen on reinforcing their midfield this season.

Paris Saint-Germain have full agreement on personal terms with Fabián Ruiz. It's matter of final details with Napoli then deal will be done, Luis Campos on it to anticipate Real Madrid - they want him for free in 2023. 🚨🔵🇪🇸 #PSG

PSG and Napoli, also working on Keylor Navas. pic.twitter.com/gJr0811Bcm
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 8, 2022

They’ve already signed Vitinha from PSG and Renato Sanches from Lille, and adding Ruiz will be the cherry on top, creating a complete and balanced side in the middle of the park.

Real Madrid have had a quieter window, despite making the summer’s biggest signing in Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco, where they also beat off competition from PSG.

They’ve not signed anyone else, and that midfield signing ended any hopes of signing Ruiz, as they feel strong enough to defend their domestic and European crowns in 2022-23.