Man Utd transfer boost as ‘Fabian Ruiz continues to stall on Napoli contract but Ten Hag faces Real Madrid competition’

MANCHESTER UNITED transfer target Fabian Ruiz has refused to sign a new contract with Napoli, according to reports.

The Red Devils have identified Ruiz, 26, as a top transfer target.

New boss Erik ten Hag had been eager to bring Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong to Old Trafford, however, the Dutchman does not want to make the switch.

Man Utd officials are still eager to add a new midfielder to their ranks, and they could finally be onto a breakthrough with Ruiz open to the prospect of leaving Napoli.

According to transfer guru , the Spaniard had another meeting with Napoli chiefs on Saturday, but the two parties could not agree terms for a new deal.

Ruiz's current contract expires next summer, so he could leave the Serie A giants for a cut-price fee of just £26million before the transfer window closes.

While Man Utd are considering a formal offer, Real Madrid are also monitoring the midfielder's situation.

The LaLiga champions are hoping to sign him on a free transfer next summer, with Carlo Ancelotti pushing for a reunion.

United chiefs have already approached Ruiz's representatives to discuss the possibility of a deal.

The Red Devils are in desperate need of a new midfielder following the departure of Paul Pogba.

However, they are running out of time to seal a deal before the Premier League season kicks off next week.

Marco Asensio has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, however, Liverpool are considering a swoop for the Spaniard.