'Better chance of making the World Cup' - Palmeiras reportedly submit multi-million dollar offer for Marcel Ruiz, but Toluca midfielder prefers to stay in Mexico

Toluca v Tigres UANL - Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX

Reports suggest the Brazilian club is willing to pay up to $14 million for the player, but his priority is a move to Europe

Toluca v Necaxa - Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX

WHAT HAPPENED?

Palmeiras has reportedly submitted a multi-million dollar offer for Marcel Ruiz, the current Toluca midfielder and standout performer with the Mexican national team during the last Gold Cup. Despite the bid - believed to be around $14 million - journalist César Luis Merlo reported that Ruiz has no intention of leaving Mexican football for Brazil at this time.

Toluca v Necaxa - Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Beyond the transfer speculation, Marcel Ruiz’s main goal is to move to European football - the only scenario in which he would consider leaving Toluca this summer. Unless an offer arrives from Europe, the midfielder is expected to stay with Los Diablos for at least one more tournament.

Following his strong performance in the Gold Cup, Ipswich Town from England’s second division made an offer, but Ruiz reportedly wasn’t interested in the move. The player is set to be part of Toluca’s roster for the upcoming Leagues Cup.

Toluca v Tigres UANL - Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX

WHAT ANTONIO MOHAMED SAID

“We hope he stays because he’s an extremely important player,” said the Argentine coach and reigning Liga MX champion. “We gave him limited minutes to manage his workload. The hope is that he remains with us - especially because, playing at this level and playing here, he has a better chance of making the World Cup squad.”

Club America v Toluca - Campeon de Campeones 2024-25

WHAT NEXT FOR TOLUCA?

Mohamed’s team will make their Leagues Cup debut Tuesday against Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field.