West Ham are interested in signing playmaker Fabian Ruiz from Spanish top-flight club Real Betis, according to ESPN.
The news outlet claims that the Hammers are preparing a move for the 21-year-old midfielder and that manager David Moyes could be present to watch him in action against Barcelona on Sunday night.
It is understood that Moyes is desperate to sign a midfielder in the January window and the club will match the Spaniard’s £13.2million release clause if he impresses the manager.
Spanish outlet Marca have already previously reported that Premier League trio Tottenham, Leicester and Manchester City are keen on the in-demand midfielder, while Italian side Roma are also interested.
Good move for West Ham?
West Ham certainly need to inject some youth into the centre of the park and the upcoming La Liga star looks like he could be a good fit at the London Stadium.
The Real Betis ace has managed to become a regular in the first team this campaign, scoring two goals and supplying two assists in 16 appearances.
He has already represented Spain at youth level and could link up well with compatriot Pedro Obiang for the Hammers.
West Ham have a range of defensive midfielders in their squad and Ruiz could add some attacking edge, while his near-£13million fee could turn out to be a bargain as he develops in the future.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Ruiz is certainly a player that is within West Ham’s reach as Moyes prepares to jet out on a scouting mission on Sunday.
His release clause is affordable and the Hammers want to sign a midfielder in the remainder of the January window.
However, the main problem will be the potential competition for his signature, for instance Spurs are an attractive club for emerging stars given their manager Mauricio Pochettino.
This Is Futbol rating: 3/10