Newcastle and Liverpool Battle for Rayo’s Andrei Ratiu
Newcastle United are weighing up a move for Rayo Vallecano right-back Andrei Ratiu, with Eddie Howe pushing for fresh defensive options at St James’ Park, according to Marca.
Ratiu, 28, has forced his way onto several Premier League shortlists after an eye-catching campaign in La Liga. His situation is now being tracked closely by Newcastle, Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, while Barcelona have also been credited with interest.
Newcastle’s revenge mission after Liverpool hijack
There is more than a hint of unfinished business on Tyneside. Earlier in the summer, Newcastle believed they were closing in on Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna. Liverpool stepped in late and snatched the deal, leaving the Magpies frustrated and short of a wide option they thought was already in the bag.
That sting has not gone away. Any race with Liverpool for Ratiu will inevitably carry a little extra edge. Newcastle want reinforcements; they also want a measure of payback.
A full-back built for modern football
Ratiu’s appeal is obvious. He is a right-back who plays with a winger’s instincts, comfortable pushing high, driving at his marker and threading passes into dangerous areas.
Last season he registered four assists in 34 La Liga appearances, having produced two goals and three assists in the same number of league games in the 2024-25 campaign. Those numbers, combined with his versatility, have put him on the radar of clubs looking for a defender who can change the tempo in the final third.
He can operate as an out-and-out winger when required, stretching the pitch and isolating full-backs. His dribbling and passing give him value higher up the pitch, while his appetite for interceptions and defensive work make him more than just an attacking luxury.
That blend of aggression without the ball and composure with it explains why Barcelona have monitored him, and why Premier League scouts keep returning to Vallecas.
Liverpool, Forest and the European question
Newcastle are not alone. Liverpool have identified the Romania international as a potential addition to their defensive options, and their recent success in the market — not least the Munoz deal — underlines how ruthless they can be once they move decisively.
Nottingham Forest are also in the frame, sensing an opportunity to add a proven La Liga performer who is entering his prime years. For a club still looking to solidify its Premier League status, a dependable, energetic right-back with attacking upside is a tempting proposition.
Newcastle, though, face a specific hurdle. They cannot offer European football at St James’ Park next season, a factor that could weigh heavily if Liverpool or Barcelona firm up their interest. For a player whose stock is rising, the chance to step straight into continental competition carries obvious appeal.
The chase for Ratiu is shaping into a test of Newcastle’s pulling power in a crowded market. If they want to answer Liverpool’s last-minute raid for Munoz, this is the fight that will show just how strong their hand really is.
