The Saints boss is looking to see Valencia’s Victor Ruiz become his first signing.
Source: THE SUN
Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino is looking to sign Valencia defender Victor Ruiz as he aims to put his own stamp on the team.
Pochettino has yet to sign any players at St Mary’s himself and it seems as if Ruiz could be the perfect acquisition for the Argentinian.
The Saints boss knows the 24-year-old well after handing him his Espanyol debut back in 2009 when both men were plying their trade at the Barcelona club.
The former La Liga manager sold Ruiz in 2011 to Italian club Napoli, but only in order for Espanyol to balance the books and he is long-term admirer of the centre-back.
Pochettino has vast experience of the Spanish league and has made no secrets he will be looking there when the club make movements in the transfer market.
“We are all aware Spain are going through difficult economic times and that makes their league very interesting for English clubs to go and sign their players,” the 41-year-old said.
Ruiz has appeared at every youth level up to the Under-21s for Spain, but as yet has not been given a call-up to the senior squad.
The Valencia man only spent six months in Italy before moving to the Mestalla Stadium and has made 67 appearances in the last two years.
However, with former boss Pochettino showing interest in Ruiz there is every chance he would consider swapping Spain for the English coast next season.
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