Barcelona are exploring a summer move for Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu as they seek to reinforce their right-back options. According to reports, sporting director Deco has identified the Romanian international as a target, with the 27-year-old possessing a release clause set at €25 million.
The Catalan club's interest stems from ongoing concerns over their defensive depth on the right side. Jules Kounde, the primary option in that position, has endured a difficult season, failing to replicate the form he showed in the 2024-25 campaign. With no natural backup currently in the squad, the need for reinforcement is considered urgent by the club's sporting department.
Deco is said to have held talks with Ratiu's representatives as far back as 2025, and the player remains on Barcelona's radar. Sources describe him as an "interesting player profile" for Hansi Flick's side. Ratiu has been a consistent performer for Rayo Vallecano since joining from Coventry City, establishing himself as a regular starter and earning caps for Romania.
The potential transfer is complicated by Barcelona's well-documented financial constraints. The club's priority is to invest significantly in a new centre-back and a striker this summer, which could limit the funds available for additional signings. While Barcelona maintain a positive relationship with Rayo president Raul Martin Presa, the Madrid-based club is expected to hold out for the full €25 million release clause, a fee that may prove challenging for the Catalans to meet.
Ratiu's potential arrival would also be influenced by the future of Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese full-back has impressed on loan but his permanent signing from Al Hilal is not yet secured. Even if Cancelo stays, the right-back position is viewed as a separate area requiring attention. Ratiu's versatility, capable of playing as a conventional right-back or in a more advanced wing-back role, is seen as an asset.
For Rayo Vallecano, losing a key defender would be a significant blow, but the €25 million fee would represent a substantial return on a player they signed for a nominal fee. For Barcelona, a move for Ratiu would signal a more measured approach to the market, targeting a proven La Liga performer rather than a marquee name, as they navigate their financial limitations. The coming weeks will determine whether Deco can structure a deal that satisfies all parties.
