REUTERS/Andrew Couldridge
Fulham have been in talks to sign Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu, with Alvaro Arbeloa eager to bring in a new right-back before the September 1st transfer deadline.
Arbeloa admitted he wants to make more additions before the summer transfer window comes to a close, with the Spaniard saying: "I think we can make the squad stronger and more balanced, but I'm happy with the way that the club is working during this summer, like I said, with the three new players, so we are still working on it."
That is despite the Cottagers already making a number of key signings this summer, with Arbeloa choosing to raid former club Real Madrid for two players.
Fulham's summer signings Joined from Transfer fee
Gonzalo Garcia Real Madrid £34m
Shea Charles Southampton £30m
Cesar Palacios Real Madrid £8.5m
Jonah Kusi-Asare Bayern Munich £5.2m
However, the west Londoners have mainly focused on strengthening in midfield and attack this summer thus far, and bringing in a new right-back could be particularly important, given that Kenny Tete has agreed personal terms for a move to Everton.
Ratiu could be a solid replacement, considering he has now proven himself in one of Europe's top leagues, making 84 La Liga appearances during his time with Rayo Vallecano.
An average of 1.2 interceptions in La Liga last season was the third-highest number in the squad, while he is also capable of contributing on the front foot, creating 43 chances, which was the most of any Rayo Vallecano player.
The 38-cap Romania international also chipped in with four assists in La Liga, and he has been lauded as "unstoppable" by journalist Jonay Amaro.
Fulham in talks to sign Andrei Ratiu
andrei-ratiu-rayo-vallecano
According to Sky Sports, Fulham are now in talks to sign Ratiu, with bringing in a new right-back regarded as a priority for Arbeloa before the fast approaching transfer deadline, which is on Tuesday night.
Arbeloa's side are also looking to bring in a 'fast right-sided centre-back and a right-winger' if possible, with the manager still eager to strengthen at both ends of the pitch.
Getting their recruitment right may be very important for the Cottagers, as Gary Neville has suggested they could have a tough season ahead, after losing Marco Silva, and they succumbed to a 3-2 defeat at home against Chelsea in their opening match.