Arsenal and Newcastle 'lead the chase for Fabian Ruiz as Napoli make him available for only £26m'

Arsenal and Newcastle are leading the race to land Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz this summer, according to reports.

The 26-year-old, who joined the Italian giants from Real Betis for £27million in 2018, is set to enter the final year of his contract in July.

Eager not to lose Ruiz on a free transfer next summer, Napoli have reportedly placed a £25.8million price tag on the Spanish international, piquing the interest of Arsenal and Newcastle, as well as both Manchester clubs.

The Magpies had their £42million bid rejected just six months ago and now have the chance to sign Ruiz on a cut-price deal.

However, Newcastle must first bat away competition from the Gunners, who are now the most interested party according to Corriere dello Sport.

Arsenal have been keeping tabs on Leicester star Youri Tielemans in pursuit of a creative midfielder but may take up the opportunity to sign Ruiz on the cheap instead.

The Italian outlet also claims that both Manchester United and Manchester City have now joined the summer chase as well.

All four Premier League clubs have reportedly 'made their move', placing the power in the hands of the Spaniard.

Ruiz featured in 32 league matches and scored seven goals as Napoli finished third behind AC Milan and Inter in Serie A last campaign.

Operating as a deep-lying playmaker, Ruiz mostly played alongside Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa in a double-pivot or midfield three at Napoli last season.