Fabián Ruiz on the Radar: Man United and Al Nassr Eye PSG Midfielder Ahead of Summer Shakeup
Spanish midfielder Fabián Ruiz has attracted serious interest from both Manchester United and Saudi club Al Nassr, as PSG faces growing pressure to offload talent amid their midfield overhaul. Here's what insiders are saying about the potential moves.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Paris Saint-Germain’s Fabián Ruiz has emerged as one of the most closely watched names in European football. The Spanish midfielder is now firmly in the sights of Manchester United and Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr — two clubs with vastly different ambitions but a shared desire to bolster their midfield options. According to multiple sources close to both clubs, initial contact has been made, and while no official bids have yet been submitted, talks are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
Ruiz, 28, has been a reliable figure for PSG since arriving from Napoli in 2022 but may find himself surplus to requirements as the French champions look to retool their midfield under Luis Enrique. ### A Midfield Talent in Transition
Fabián Ruiz is no stranger to the transfer spotlight. After making a name for himself at Real Betis, the Spanish international impressed in Serie A with Napoli, where his mix of passing range, tactical intelligence, and ability to control tempo made him one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
PSG secured his services for around €23 million in 2022, viewing him as a long-term solution in midfield. But under Luis Enrique, PSG’s tactical shift toward a more high-pressing, dynamic system has placed Ruiz’s methodical style at odds with the new approach. Despite a solid 2023–24 campaign — featuring 28 appearances, three goals, and five assists across all competitions — PSG insiders say the club is open to selling Ruiz if a reasonable offer arrives.
The current valuation hovers around €25–30 million. ### Manchester United’s Midfield Puzzle
Manchester United’s interest in Ruiz is part of a broader push to reshape their midfield, which struggled with both injuries and inconsistency last season. With Casemiro linked to a move to Saudi Arabia, Christian Eriksen aging, and Scott McTominay's role uncertain, Erik ten Hag — or whoever ends up managing United, depending on the INEOS leadership’s final decision — is looking for a composed, technically proficient central midfielder.
Ruiz fits that mold. He’s a left-footed deep-lying playmaker who could complement the more physical or box-to-box profiles United already possess. Sources close to the club suggest that United see Ruiz as a value alternative to more expensive targets like João Neves or Frenkie de Jong.
“United are doing their due diligence,” said one Premier League scout. “They see Ruiz as a player who can bring calm to chaotic moments and dictate the tempo — something they’ve lacked in key matches. ”
### Al Nassr's Bold Ambitions
While United offers Ruiz the chance to remain at the top of European competition, Al Nassr presents a very different but increasingly appealing proposition.
The Saudi Pro League has aggressively pursued top European talent in recent windows, and Fabián Ruiz’s name has been added to their growing wishlist. Al Nassr — already boasting stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané — is aiming to improve its midfield with someone capable of controlling games and contributing to continental competition success. Sources indicate that Ruiz has been identified as a key summer target, with discussions at the agent level already underway.
The Saudi side is reportedly prepared to offer a lucrative three-year contract with a significant salary bump, one that would far exceed what Ruiz currently earns in Paris. ### Player's Perspective: Caught Between Two Worlds
Ruiz himself is believed to be weighing his options carefully. While he remains grateful to PSG and has enjoyed life in Paris, the lack of consistent starting time — especially in big matches — has left him open to a new challenge.
A return to La Liga is not off the table, with Atlético Madrid also monitoring the situation. However, the financial muscle of United and Al Nassr may make them the more realistic bidders. “Fabián wants to play regularly and feel important,” said one source close to the player.
“He’s open to both types of projects — the challenge in England or the opportunity to build something in Saudi Arabia. But the timing and fit have to be right. ”
### PSG's Midfield Makeover
PSG’s openness to selling Ruiz is part of a larger midfield shakeup.
With Manuel Ugarte, Vitinha, Warren Zaïre-Emery, and the recently signed Kang-in Lee all expected to have increased roles, there is simply no room for everyone. Luis Enrique’s strategy has emphasized vertical play, quick transitions, and younger, more mobile profiles — qualities that don’t fully align with Ruiz’s more methodical, possession-heavy approach. “PSG respects Fabián, but the project is evolving,” a PSG insider told French media.
“There’s an understanding that a transfer could benefit both the club and the player. ”
### Financials and Potential Deal Structure
With Ruiz under contract until June 2027, PSG holds a strong negotiating position. However, they are reportedly willing to let him leave for the right price — estimated between €25–30 million — to accelerate their rebuilding plan.
Manchester United is expected to pursue a structured deal with performance-related add-ons, while Al Nassr would likely offer an upfront cash bid. United's advantage lies in prestige and Champions League football, but Al Nassr has unmatched financial leverage. In addition, United’s ability to move current midfielders off their wage bill will influence how aggressively they pursue Ruiz.
If Casemiro’s departure is confirmed, the urgency to find a like-for-like replacement increases dramatically. ### Tactical Fit: Who Needs Ruiz More?
From a purely tactical perspective, Manchester United might benefit more from Ruiz’s services. His ability to dictate tempo, switch play, and retain possession under pressure could balance out United’s midfield, particularly against elite opposition.
At Al Nassr, Ruiz would be the center of the system — a marquee name who elevates the Saudi side’s credibility and quality. However, the intensity and tactical complexity of the Premier League may be a more appropriate challenge for his skillset at this stage of his career. ### What Comes Next?
The next few weeks will be critical.
PSG is expected to accelerate outgoings in early July to create room for incoming deals. United, meanwhile, is juggling multiple priorities, including the center-back and striker positions. Al Nassr, however, has both the focus and funding to act quickly.
The Saudi side could table a formal offer soon, putting pressure on United to decide how serious they are about bringing Ruiz to Old Trafford. For Ruiz, it’s a pivotal moment. Stay in Europe and fight for a place at a traditional powerhouse? Or embrace a high-profile role in a growing league with financial and lifestyle perks?
One thing is clear: Fabián Ruiz won’t be short of options.
And wherever he ends up, his new club will gain a midfielder with intelligence, maturity, and the kind of control that every great team needs. As the transfer window unfolds, the chase for Fabián Ruiz may become one of the most intriguing subplots of the summer.
