Atlético Madrid eyes Rayo Vallecano full-back following impressive display | OneFootball

Atlético Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano at the weekend in a display which saw the Vallecas team keep Atléti’s star players at bay.

A spirited defensive performance saw Rayo beat Atlético in key stats such as possession, total shots and xG, in a match which could have gone either way.

This great defensive performance has led Simeone’s side to keep an eye on a key member of the Rayo defence, who could be a budget option for Los Colchoneros.

As per ElDesmarque, the man in question is Romanian full-back Andrei Ratiu, who was the standout performer for his side at the weekend and assisted Isi’s goal in the first half.

The 26-year-old has been in the Spanish capital for just one full season, but has already proved himself a key member of Iñigo Pérez’s squad.

This performance seems to be the cherry on top of a solid outing at the Euros for Romania in the summer and may have put the right-back on top of Atléti’s list of targets come the next transfer window.

The Romanian could also prove a budget option for Simeone’s side, as Transfermarkt place him at a value of €3 million, meaning he won’t break the bank.

GSFN | Ciaran Currie