Barcelona revive interest in 27-year-old La Liga right-back as a contingency if Kounde departs this summer | OneFootball

Several changes are expected to take place in the FC Barcelona defense in the upcoming summer transfer window. The Catalans are primarily working to bring in another center-back, but some moves on the flanks can also not be ruled out.

They are already being linked with several names for the left flank, where Joao Cancelo’s continuity is subject to some doubt. Meanwhile, changes can also take place on the right flank, as SPORT reports that some reports from Romania suggest that the Rayo Vallecano fullback Andrei Ratiu is once again being linked with Barcelona.

The defender was already associated with the Blaugrana side last year, and this year, his performances have been quite good, as he has helped his team reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Conference League.

However, the 27-year-old right-back renewed his contract with the Madrid side last year and is now committed to them till 2030. Similarly, Rayo now have also full rights over him, and have his release clause set at €25 million.

One reason Barcelona are considering this move is that they are anticipating an offer from the Premier League for Jules Kounde, and if this possibility materializes, they would have Andrei Ratiu as a target ready to replace the Frenchman.