Real Madrid have jumped ahead of Manchester City in the battle for Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz.

ESPN says Ruiz sees the Bernabeu as his preferred destination, despite rival interest from City and Barcelona.

Ruiz does not have a release clause, and he could cost Madrid up to £86million.

They have long held an interest in the 23-year-old and followed him closely at youth level and when he was previously at Real Betis.

He made the move to Italy in 2018, signing a five-year contract.