Romanian right-back Andrei Ratiu has been turning heads across Europe this season, as his impressive performances for Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga have caught the attention of top clubs, including Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester City.
A Consistent Force in LaLiga
The 26-year-old defender has firmly established himself as a regular in the Rayo Vallecano lineup, playing in 27 out of the 29 league matches this season.
His contributions go beyond solid defensive work, having scored twice and provided three assists, helping his team push for a European qualification spot.
Ratiu has been an integral part of one of LaLiga’s toughest defensive units, with only the top four teams boasting a better record than Vallecano.
Ratiu’s Potential Move: Price and Competition
As reported by Sport Bild, Ratiu could be available for just £21million this summer, a price that has raised eyebrows considering his level of play. However, there’s a twist in his situation.
A buy-back clause inserted in his deal when he moved to Rayo Vallecano for less than £500,000 means that his former club, Villarreal, can bring him back for a mere £6million.
On top of that, Villarreal would hold 50% of the transfer rights and could sell him to the highest bidder.
Rayo Vallecano’s sporting director, David Cobeno, spoke to DAZN about Ratiu’s future, stating, “We are very happy with Andrei here.
The motto is always the same: whoever wants him has to pay his release clause.
We’re very confident about the future. Time will tell whether he stays with us or whether someone else pays his release clause.”
Major Clubs Lining Up for Ratiu
Ratiu’s standout performances have made him an attractive prospect for some of Europe’s most powerful clubs.
Liverpool, in particular, are reportedly in the market for a new right-back as they prepare for the potential departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is nearing a free transfer to Real Madrid.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is another name linked with a move to Anfield, and if that deal goes through, it could force a shift in the market, with Liverpool eyeing further reinforcements.
Barcelona are also believed to be interested in Ratiu, following their reported pursuit of Chelsea’s Joules Kounde.
On the other hand, Manchester City is looking to bolster their defence after the departure of Kyle Walker, currently on loan to AC Milan for the rest of the season.
Pep Guardiola has had to field players out of position, particularly at right-back, making Ratiu an appealing option to strengthen their squad.
As the summer transfer window approaches, it’s clear that Andrei Ratiu’s performances in LaLiga have made him one of the most sought-after right-backs in European football.