Andrei Rațiu: one of the alternatives that Deco likes the most for the right side of FC Barcelona

One of the goals of FC Barcelona for the upcoming seasons is to strengthen the right-back position. While Jules Koundé is currently one of the best players in the world in that position, it is clear that in a team like the Blaugrana, it is advisable to have more than one high-level player in each position. This becomes particularly important in a season full of commitments, where rotating to give rest to all the Culés will be necessary.

This goes beyond mere words. Jules Koundé is currently the player with the most minutes played in the 2024-25 season (3,185'), being a key player in Hansi Flick's starting lineup. However, as a second option in the position, there is Héctor Fort, a promising right-back from the academy but with less experience. Therefore, there is a need to acquire a more experienced alternative, possibly within the 'low-cost' category.

Among the options being considered by the sports management of FC Barcelona to strengthen the right-back position, it has been reported that Andrei Rațiu, a 26-year-old Romanian player currently playing for Rayo Vallecano, is gaining increasing interest from the Barcelona hierarchy as a reinforcement for the right side. The Aiud native has emerged this season as one of the revelations in La Liga, being one of the standout players in a 'franjirrojo' team that is fighting to qualify for European competitions.

Andrei Rațiu would be to Deco's liking to bolster the right-back position

As reported by 'Cadena SER', Andrei Rațiu, who shares an agent with Pedri González and Ferran Torres, two talents from FC Barcelona, is highly appreciated by the Barcelona sports management, especially by Deco, who sees him as an interesting reinforcement for the defense. Furthermore, his release clause of €25M makes him an affordable option.

At this point, it is important to see if FC Barcelona ultimately decides to secure the services of Andrei Rațiu. The former Villarreal CF player has proven to be a tenacious defender, excelling in individual duels against notable forwards like Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Julián Álvarez. Additionally, the Romanian international is a very fast right-back with a good offensive inclination.

Andrei Rațiu in the 2024-25 season:

• Matches 🥅: 24
• Goals ⚽: 1
• Assists 👟: 2
• Minutes played ⌚: 2,017'

The Romanian is not only of interest to FC Barcelona

Now, considering his attractive price and good performance, it is not surprising that several European clubs, such as AS Roma, Bayer Leverkusen, Atlético de Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur, are interested in him. This could complicate his signing by FC Barcelona.