Newcastle United monitoring Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu | OneFootball

Newcastle United are closely monitoring the situation of Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu, according to Marca.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe wants defensive reinforcements at St James’ Park, and the Romania has emerged as a target.

However, Liverpool also want the La Liga star, and the Magpies will be desperate to pip the Reds to his services.

Newcastle were dealt a big blow earlier this summer after the Merseyside club signed Spanish attacker Victor Munoz.

The Magpies thought they had wrapped up a deal to sign the winger from Osasuna, but Liverpool hijacked the deal at the last minute.

Newcastle will now hope to revenge by beating them to Ratiu. Nottingham Forest are also closely following the right-back, and a move to the Premier League could be on the cards for the 28-year-old.

The Toons target bagged four assists in 34 La Liga games last term after weighing in with two goals and three assists in the same number of league games in 2024-25.

Ratiu has also been linked with Barcelona, with his attacking abilities attracting the Spanish club.

The full-back can also play as a winger, with his dribbling and passing qualities Newcastle could do with in the final third.

He also loves to intercept the ball, with his defensive contributions a major part of his game.

The Magpies will hope they can get Ratiu ahead of other suitors, but the lack of European football at SJP next season could work against them.