West Ham United are planning a move for Real Betis midfielder Fabian Ruiz with boss David Moyes due to fly out to watch him in action against Barcelona on Sunday, sources have told ESPN FC.
Moyes has made midfield reinforcements one of his top priorities during this month's transfer window and has been linked with a host of players, but now he is ready to switch his attention to Ruiz.
Ruiz, 21, has impressed for Betis this season, scoring two goals and creating two assists in 15 La Liga games so far this term.
Ruiz has come through the ranks at Real Betis and is a Spain under-21 international. His performances have brought him to the attention of a number of clubs across Europe and now West Ham are ready to make a move for him before the close of the transfer window.
Moyes has decided to travel to Spain to watch Ruiz in action against Barcelona as he prefers to see his transfer targets in person before making a decision on whether or not to sign him.
Ruiz has a €15 million release clause in his contract at Betis and West Ham are ready to meet if Moyes is impressed by the midfielder in the game against Barcelona.
West Ham are 11th spot in the Premier League, five points above the relegation zone and Moyes wants to bring in some quality additions before the transfer window closes to help his side secure survival.