Valencia Sign Defender Alberto Ruiz from Real Betis for €15m

Valencia have completed the signing of Spanish defender Alberto Ruiz from La Liga rivals Real Betis for a reported €15 million fee, both clubs confirmed on Thursday. The 28-year-old center-back has signed a four-year contract at Mestalla through June 2028.

Ruiz arrives after making 32 league appearances for Betis last season, helping Manuel Pellegrini's side secure a seventh-place finish. His departure follows months of speculation about Valencia's search for defensive reinforcements after conceding 53 goals in 2023-24 - the fourth-worst record in La Liga.

The transfer provides immediate financial relief for Betis, who faced pressure to balance their books amid Financial Fair Play concerns. For Valencia, Ruiz offers top-flight experience and aerial dominance, characteristics manager Ruben Baraja prioritized after losing Gabriel Paulista earlier this summer.

Born in Seville, Ruiz came through Betis' youth academy before establishing himself as a first-team regular in 2020. His physical style and 87% pass accuracy last season made him an attractive target for clubs seeking reliable defensive depth. Valencia's sporting director Miguel Angel Corona described the signing as 'strategic for both present needs and future planning' in a brief statement.

The move continues Valencia's shift toward domestic signings under owner Peter Lim, following last week's acquisition of Levante midfielder Pablo González. Ruiz could make his debut in Valencia's August 17 season opener against Barcelona.