The 2025-2026 transfer market is already underway, and FC Barcelona doesn't want to fall behind. Deco, their sporting director, is working intensively to strengthen the team and ensure a competitive project.
Barça is looking for a right-back to give Koundé, a key piece in the defense, some rest. The search has led the club to focus on a player who is shining in LaLiga and has shown he can compete against the best: Andrei Rațiu.
Rațiu, a Right-Back on the Rise
The 26-year-old Romanian footballer is having a spectacular season with Rayo Vallecano. His balance between attack and defense has attracted clubs like Atlético de Madrid and Villarreal.
However, Barcelona has paid special attention to him after his great performance against Real Madrid. In that match, Rațiu managed to stop one of the most unbalancing players in the world: Vinícius Júnior.
The Test Against Vinícius
One of the key matches for Andrei Rațiu's name to gain more prominence was his encounter with Real Madrid. At Santiago Bernabéu, Rayo's right-back had the difficult task of marking Vinícius, and he did so with an impressive level.
The Brazilian, known for his speed and dribbling, had a lot of difficulties overcoming Rațiu. In fact, Vinícius himself acknowledged after the match: "At Bernabéu it was very hard for me. He's a tough defender."
These words didn't go unnoticed in Barcelona. Barcelona, aware that they need defenders capable of stopping the best strikers, sees Rațiu as a strategic signing.
A Key Reinforcement for Hansi
Hansi Flick knows that the season is long and that he needs a balanced squad. The right-back position is demanding, and Rațiu would allow for rotations without losing quality.
Moreover, his arrival would mean an important tactical reinforcement. Rațiu is a player who fulfills defensively and also has offensive capabilities, something essential in Barça's play style.
Barcelona is not the only club interested, so they will have to move quickly if they want to secure his incorporation. With an accessible contract and rising performance, Rațiu is a viable option both economically and sportingly.
If everything goes as expected, the Romanian right-back could wear the blaugrana jersey next season, becoming a key reinforcement for the team. Now, the ball is in Barça's court.