MEDICAL SET: Arsenal is ready to carry out a medical examination for a £40 million striker after reaching a verbal agreement on a five-year contract, with the jersey number confirmed as Arteta prepares to announce his third signing of the summer.

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a move for Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as Mikel Arteta ramps up his search for a new midfielder.

According to Caught Offside, Ruiz has been added to Arsenal’s list of potential recruits. Arteta is particularly interested in a left-footed midfielder, and Ruiz has emerged as a preferred target, with PSG potentially open to offers.

The Gunners’ interest in Fabian Ruiz comes as they look to bolster their midfield, especially on the left side, which has been weakened since Granit Xhaka’s departure.

Ruiz, who was a standout for Spain during their Euro 2024 victory, has not been a regular starter under PSG’s coach Luis Enrique, making only 21 league appearances last season. This situation has led PSG to consider selling him, particularly as they are close to signing Portuguese talent Joao Neves.

Arsenal are reportedly planning a loan move for Ruiz with an option to buy at the end of the season. However, it is uncertain if PSG would accept this proposal, as they reportedly value Ruiz at around €45 million.

Despite their interest in Ruiz, he is not Arsenal’s primary target. Arteta is primarily focused on signing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, who he believes possesses more of the qualities he desires in a midfielder. Arsenal plan to make an offer for Merino once personal terms are agreed upon.

However, if negotiations for Merino fall through, Ruiz could become Arsenal’s main target. Securing either player would significantly strengthen the team’s midfield and support the development of younger players.