The FC Barcelona, despite Jules Koundé showcasing a very interesting level of play as a right-back and maintaining a consistently high performance most of the time, gives the impression of not neglecting the various market alternatives to strengthen that right side, not only thinking about the present, but also about the future.
As reported by 'MARCA', a new name has started to emerge in the orbit of Barcelona as a possible addition to strengthen the right flank. An option that already knows what it is to see action in LaLiga EA Sports, young and could perfectly fit into the category of 'low-cost' signings.
The player in question would be the right-back of Rayo Vallecano, Andrei Ratiu, a footballer for whom, as the aforementioned source expresses, Barcelona has already established contact with his agent. It is worth noting that this agent represents Pedri González, Ferran Torres, and Noah Darvich, in order to understand the situation of the native of Aiud (Romania).
Barcelona already knows Andrei Ratiu's situation at Rayo
Apparently, Barcelona has very favorable reports on this 26-year-old right-back, who has had outstanding performances with Rayo Vallecano in the 2024-25 season (11 matches played, one goal, and one assist), being an undisputed starter in Iñigo Pérez's squad. Additionally, Andrei Ratiu has been a key player for the Romania national team, standing out in Euro 2024 as the starting right-back under the direction of Edward Iordănescu.
Now, contractually, his situation might be affordable for Barcelona. Andrei Ratiu, defensively impregnable and offensively quite 'spicy', is under contract with Rayo Vallecano until 2028. He could leave the 'franjirrojo' team for the €25 million stated in his release clause. However, Barcelona believes that in negotiations with Rayo, they could acquire the right-back for less. His market value, according to 'Transfermarkt', is €4 million.
Will Barcelona bet on signing Andrei Ratiu?
In this scenario, Barcelona will have to evaluate whether to make an effort to secure the services of Andrei Ratiu. It should be noted that the team already has Héctor Fort, who seems to be gaining ground to strengthen the right-back position.
Furthermore, it is relevant to mention that the interest in Andrei Ratiu is not limited to Barcelona, as teams from England, Italy, and Germany are also closely monitoring the player. According to 'SPORT', Napoli under Antonio Conte is positioned as the favorite to acquire the Romanian full-back, while Atlético de Madrid has also shown interest in his services.