"It is no secret that Barcelona are scouring the market for defensive reinforcements - something they consider imperative before starting the 2026/27 campaign. While the major focus is on finding a long-term replacement for Inigo Martinez, the club also want to beef up their ranks in the fullback slots. This comes amid concerns over the performance levels of Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, which have forced Barcelona to consider signing alternatives. To that end, one of the players Barcelona had been tracking for a long time is Andrei Ratiu, who is regarded as one of the best full-backs in La Liga."
"However, in a major development, Ratiu has extended his contract at Rayo Vallecano until 2030, thus thwarting Barcelona's hopes of signing him anytime soon. According to SPORT, Barcelona were always interested in Ratiu's services but never approached the Romanian, primarily due to Eric Garcia's emergence as an excellent backup for Kounde at right-back. Other European clubs were keen on acquiring Ratiu's services, but Rayo Vallecano remained steadfast and were able to sign a contract while holding on to the €25 million release clause."
Barcelona are actively seeking defensive reinforcements ahead of the 2026/27 season, prioritising a long-term replacement for Inigo Martinez and upgrades at fullback. Concerns over Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde have driven the search for alternatives, with Andrei Ratiu long monitored as a top La Liga full-back. Ratiu has signed a contract extension with Rayo Vallecano until 2030, preventing an immediate transfer. Barcelona had interest but did not approach due to Eric Garcia emerging as a capable right-back backup. Rayo retained a €25 million release clause and likely raised it, making a future move more costly. The left-back role remains the greater concern.
Read at Barca Universal
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