Barcelona eyeing move for Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu with Jules Kounde drawing Premier League interest

Barcelona eyeing move for Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu with Jules Kounde drawing Premier League interest

While Barcelona are on the cusp of retaining their La Liga title, the Catalan giants are also pushing ahead with their summer transfer plans.

According to SPORT, Barcelona are stepping up their effort to sign Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu.

The Blaugranas are looking to reinforce their backline this summer, and Ratiu is one of several defenders on their extensive shortlist.

The 27-year-old is considered one of the finest full-backs in the Spanish top flight, and Barcelona want to snap him up this summer.

Ratiu is seen as a long-term replacement for Jules Kounde, with the Barcelona star back on the radar of several Premier League clubs.

Kounde was linked with a move to Chelsea a few years ago. While the move never materialised, the France international has been tipped for a move to the Premier League once again.

Kounde has been a standout performer for Barcelona, but the club’s lack of depth in that position has been a problem for manager Hansi Flick.