As Real Madrid host Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu tonight, FC Barcelona will be keeping a close eye on the match.
The Catalan giants are not only interested in the result as they continue their title chase but also in closely analysing Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu, who will face a major challenge against Vinicius Jr.
The Romanian full-back, a transfer target for Barcelona, has already impressed against the Real Madrid winger in the past and the Blaugrana will again be watching to see how he fares in the duel tonight.
Barcelona told to pay Ratiu’s release clause
As previously reported, Barcelona have been monitoring Ratiu for weeks. The right-back is known for his strength and physicality, attributes that Deco values highly as he looks for an alternative to Jules Kounde on the right side of the defence.
However, signing Ratiu will not be easy. Rayo Vallecano have made it clear that they are unwilling to negotiate and will demand the full amount of his release clause, which stands at €25 million.
Andrei Ratiu (R) is a target for Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
This was confirmed by the club’s sporting director, David Cobeno, in an interview with Radio MARCA (h/t SPORT).
“Andrei is 50% owned by us. If someone wants to enquire about him, we can talk, but we will demand his full release clause,” Cobeno explained.
“This is his first full season at the highest level, and we want him to stay with us. He is a key player for our project next season,” he added.
Barcelona have contacted Rayo Vallecano
Barcelona have already made initial contact with Rayo Vallecano to gauge their willingness to sell Ratiu in the summer.
The club held discussions with Rayo’s president, Martin Presa, to explore possible transfer terms, including potential player exchanges, but Rayo firmly rejected any alternative proposals.
One complicating factor is that Rayo Vallecano only owns 50% of Ratiu’s rights, with the other half belonging to Villarreal.
The full-back came through Villarreal’s academy before leaving on a free transfer to SD Huesca in 2021.
Despite this, Barcelona remain determined to strengthen the full-back positions for next season, with Ratiu emerging as one of Deco’s top targets.
However, no discussions took place when Rayo visited Montjuic for a La Liga match on 17 February, according to sources close to the Madrid-based club.