Barça faces a clear shortage in the right-back position. It doesn't have a natural specialist in that role as an alternative to Jules Koundé. This has led to searching for options outside the club with the right profile and potential.
One of those alternatives was Andrei Ratiu, right-back for Rayo Vallecano. Barça considered him in certain areas of the club as a potential reinforcement. His profile fit well from a tactical and future planning perspective.
Negotiations that didn't succeed
For a while, there were contacts between Barça and the environment of Andrei Ratiu, seeking to explore his addition. They didn't move forward for several key reasons. In particular, the release clause set at 25 million euros was a significant barrier.
The Catalan club even put an offer of 18 million on the table, which was rejected outright. In addition, Rayo Vallecano showed little willingness to negotiate and preferred to keep the player in their squad. That refusal closed off any immediate possibility of an agreement.
Additional factors that halted the deal
It wasn't just the financial aspect that stalled the deal. Some defensive shortcomings of the player during this season were also taken into account. Barça evaluates every detail of actual performance and seeks guarantees in all areas.
Moreover, the passage of time and the competitive context of LaLiga influenced the decision not to pursue the deal firmly. The club's priorities changed, and the signing was ultimately set aside. The sporting management understands that they can't take risks in such a sensitive position.
Monitoring on Barça's agenda
The interest in Andrei Ratiu arose a few months ago. He was considered an interesting alternative to give Jules Koundé a rest or even to free up defensive options in the center. His name appeared repeatedly in internal planning meetings.
Among those who viewed him favorably is Deco, Barça's sporting director, who considered him a viable profile to strengthen the right flank. However, the lack of a financial agreement ultimately outweighed the sporting aspects. With the market in motion, the Barça board is seeking more realistic solutions.
Barça once again considered strengthening the right-back position due to the lack of specialists. Andrei Ratiu was on their radar and there were contacts to study him. The high clause, Rayo's refusal, and some tactical shortcomings prevented the deal from moving forward.