Howe to seek alternative as Newcastle termed ‘unpleasant destination’ for Arsenal-linked Serie A star

Multiple reports claim Newcastle United will make a renewed effort to sign Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz this summer but are likely to be unsuccessful.

The Magpies reportedly tested the water regarding the 25-year-old during the January transfer window. It was suggested they made a sizeable bid but the Spain international was not interested. But he will enter the final 12 months of his contract with I Partenopei at the start of next season.

And that means the Serie A side are likely to listen to offers or risk losing him for nothing. Newcastle are now serious players in the transfer market after their Saudi-backed takeover.

Eddie Howe recruited well in January and is now reaping the rewards, with the Tynesiders on a seven match unbeaten run. The St James’ Park club have won four of the past five and are four points above the relegation zone.

Howe will doubtless look to add quality to his ranks at the end of 2021-2022. But Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are three European heavyweights who also have eyes on the player.

Manchester United and Arsenal have also been mentioned in connection with the schemer.

Corriere dello Sport journalist Antonio Giordano reported that the former Real Betis star will not pen fresh terms with Napoli. And Sport Mediaset have now has their say, along with Calciomercato.

The Italian outlet claims Ruiz loves Napoli but the pull to Spain is strong. Newcastle are mentioned in the piece, with claims the north-east outfit will go back in for the star in the summer.

However, Newcastle are listed as an ‘unpleasant destination’ for the man with 15 La Roja caps, who has only ‘Spain in his mind’.

Ruiz keen for Spanish return

Known for his versatile style, Ruiz would be a popular signing for