Barcelona face intense competition in race for La Liga defender with €25 million release clause | OneFootball

With FC Barcelona looking to rope in a new right-back as competition for Jules Kounde in the summer, Rayo Vallecano’s Andrei Ratiu has emerged as a target.

The 26-year-old defender is quickly making a name for himself as one of the most reliable right-backs in La Liga and has seemingly caught the eyes of the Blaugrana sporting management.

However, it appears that Barcelona are no longer alone in pursuing the Romanian international, with several clubs in the race.

Stiff competition for Andrei Ratiu

Indeed, according to SPORT, Barcelona are not the only club keeping a close eye on Ratiu. Atletico Madrid, Villarreal, AS Roma, and Aston Villa are also monitoring his progress.

At 26 years old, Ratiu is enjoying an excellent season as a key player in a Rayo side that, under Inigo Perez, has become one of the surprises of La Liga and is competing for European spots.

The Romanian international has played 22 times in all competitions this term, scoring and assisting two goals apiece.

Andrei Ratiu (L) is a man in demand. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Barcelona currently rely on Jules Kounde as their undisputed right-back. While the Frenchman is naturally a central defender, he has now fully adapted to his role on the flank and is not expected to switch positions.

La Masia product Hector Fort was considered his long-term backup, but he has seen limited playing time under Hansi Flick. As a result, the club is now looking to reinforce the position with a reliable alternative, with Ratiu emerging as an option.

Ratiu is under contract with Rayo Vallecano until 2028, with a €25 million release clause – a figure that Barcelona would be unwilling to pay.

The Catalans remain hopeful that a lower transfer fee could be negotiated. But the interest from a host of different clubs could make that possibility difficult.

With Barça taking on Rayo tomorrow in La Liga, they will likely keep a close eye on Ratiu, who himself will be keen on making a strong impression.