FC Barcelona knows how much their 'hidden gem' for the right-back position costs

Aside from the potential signing of a left winger and a center forward, FC Barcelona has prioritized the arrival of a right-back to add depth to a position where Jules Koundé has played practically every match. Several names confirm the 'casting' of the club's sports management, but Andrei Ratiu is one of the ones gaining the most momentum in recent weeks.

The 26-year-old Romanian is being closely monitored by the blue and garnet entity, which values his strength and good ball control. Deco is his main supporter at Spotify Camp Nou, so he does not rule out starting to make moves in the coming weeks to facilitate his arrival next summer.

However, it will not be an easy task, as the Catalans will have to convince Rayo Vallecano, which refuses to negotiate for one of its key players this season and insists on his release clause to agree to a transfer. This was confirmed by David Cobeño, the sports director of the Madrid team, in an interview with 'Radio MARCA'.

"Andrei is our player at 50%, if someone wants to ask us about him, we can talk, but we will ask for the clause. It is his first season in the elite consistently, and we want him to stay with us. He is a fundamental pillar for the team to continue growing in the championship next year," explained the executive.

The amount that Barça should pay for Ratiu

In this context, at Can Barça, they would need to deposit an amount of 25 million euros to secure the services of Ratiu. A very high figure for the club's expectations, which hopes to reach a more favorable agreement for a player who, beyond his good performance this season, has a market value of 7 'million' according to 'Transfermarkt'.

In addition to the Catalans, both Atlético de Madrid and Villarreal are also tracking the right-back, who has a long list of suitors abroad. In the Premier League, Brighton and Tottenham are closely monitoring his situation, while Roma and Atalanta are doing the same from Serie A. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen has him on their list of potential targets due to the possible departure of Jeremie Frimpong in the summer window.

With a contract until June 2028, the Romanian defender is set to be a key player in a career that promises to be intense. His value is increasing day by day, and in the City of Barcelona, they will need to act soon if they want to remain in contention.