Diego Simeone and the board want to add more strength to the midfield next summer, an area they believe will need fresh energy.
The situation is simple. Conor Gallagher’s future remains unclear, with Premier League clubs still circling.
Manchester United made a late enquiry about the Englishman, but Atletico wanted a permanent sale, and United were offering a loan deal.
The club knows it must look for someone who can bring both quality and consistency in the centre of the pitch.
Talks within Atletico point to a very specific profile. They want a player who can control games, provide balance, and also contribute in attack.
It is no surprise that the name of Fabian Ruiz keeps coming up when Simeone and the sporting staff plan ahead.
The Spanish midfielder is currently with Paris Saint-Germain and has a contract running until 2027.
He is 29 years old and has already proven himself in both La Liga and Ligue 1.
Earlier this year, there were reports that Real Madrid were also interested in him, but Atletico now see a real chance to make their move.
Last season, Ruiz played a vital role for Luis Enrique, forming a midfield trio alongside Vitinha and Joao Neves that helped PSG lift a historic treble.
He is also a regular starter for Spain under Luis de la Fuente and played a key part in their Euro triumph. Simeone believes Ruiz could be used in different roles.
The 29-year-old fits the double pivot system alongside Pablo Barrios or Johnny Cardoso, but he can also operate further forward thanks to his strong record of goals from midfield.
The Spaniard has already scored and assisted in Ligue 1 this season. As per Spanish sources, Atletico will continue to follow him closely ahead of next summer.
PSG have not moved to renew his deal, and that opens a possible door for Atletico Madrid for a potential move next summer for Fabian Ruiz.
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