The name Rațiu has consistently become more popular among Barcelona fans, with news outlets saying that Barcelona are moving for the Rayo Vallecano right-back this summer.
Without a doubt, Barcelona and France right-back Jules Kounde has come to be comfortable in this position and has become undisputed for both club and country.
Notwithstanding his offensive and defensive contribution, Barcelona is looking to add Rațiu this summer as a backup and not to replace the Frenchman.
Barcelona Gets Rațiu Price for Summer
Rațiu’s name has been prominent in Spanish transfer news for some time. This comes amid widespread speculation that the Romanian international could join Barcelona next season.
Rațiu, enjoying a successful season with Rayo Vallecano, is regarded as the ideal player profile and is considered a low-risk option for the position, despite the availability of Hector Fort, who might be out this summer if the Romanian comes in.
During an interview with Radio MARCA, Rayo sporting director David Cobeño was queried about the club’s demands for Rațiu, as reported by Diario Sport. Cobeño confirmed Rayo’s plan to pursue his contract’s entire €25 million release clause.
“Andrei is a 50/50 player of ours; if someone wants to ask us about him, we can talk, but we will ask for the clause. It’s his first season in the elite continuously, and we want him to stay with us. He is a fundamental pillar so that the team can continue to grow in the championship next year.”
It remains to be seen how the sporting director will respond to this situation.