Barcelona’s full-back positions have been under scrutiny throughout the 2024/2025 season.
On the right flank, Jules Kounde has been the primary choice, offering defensive solidity and contributing two goals in 28 appearances.
However, the lack of depth behind Kounde has been a concern, prompting the club to explore options for reinforcement.
On the left side, Alejandro Balde has been a consistent presence, but injuries and squad rotation have occasionally forced Barcelona to adapt their defensive lineup.
The club’s interest in bolstering their full-back options is evident, as they have been linked with young talents like Feyenoord’s Givairo Read, an 18-year-old capable of playing on both sides of the defense.
In their pursuit of strengthening the right-back position, Barcelona have now set their sights on Rayo Vallecano’s Andrei Ratiu.
According to reports from Fichajes, the Catalan club is preparing a €20 million offer for the Romanian defender to address this long-standing weakness in their squad.
Andrei Ratiu has emerged as one of La Liga’s standout full-backs this season, impressing with his defensive resilience and attacking contributions.
The 26-year-old has been a reliable presence at Rayo Vallecano, effectively neutralizing high-profile attackers and contributing offensively with two goals and three assists in 27 appearances.
His well-rounded performances have garnered attention, with several Barcelona players reportedly selecting him in their fantasy football teams, reflecting the high regard he holds among his peers.
Despite Ratiu’s contract running until 2028 and a release clause of €25 million, reports indicate that a deal could be reached for around €12-15 million.
However, Barcelona are prepared to exceed that valuation with a €20 million offer, which would make Ratiu the most expensive sale in Rayo Vallecano’s history.
Barcelona’s eagerness to strengthen their defence with players who can offer both defensive stability and attacking support aligns with Ratiu’s profile.
His potential arrival could provide much-needed consistency to the right-back position.
The outcome will depend on negotiations between the clubs and the player’s willingness to embrace a new challenge at Camp Nou.
If the deal materializes, it would mark another step in Barcelona’s ongoing squad rebuilding process.
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