Newcastle and Liverpool Battle for Rayo's Andrei Ratiu

Newcastle United and Liverpool are circling Rayo Vallecano right-back Andrei Ratiu, with the Premier League rivals preparing for another clash in the market after a bruising summer skirmish.

Eddie Howe has made defensive reinforcements a priority at St James’ Park, and Ratiu has moved high on Newcastle’s list, according to Marca. The Romania international’s mix of energy, attacking thrust and defensive bite has turned heads across Europe, and Newcastle see him as a ready-made option for their right flank.

Liverpool, though, are in the conversation again. The Merseyside club have also identified the 28-year-old as a target, raising the prospect of a straight fight between the two clubs just weeks after the Reds snatched Victor Munoz from under Newcastle’s nose.

Newcastle believed they had a deal in place to sign the Spanish winger from Osasuna earlier in the window, only for Liverpool to swoop late and hijack the move. That episode has not been forgotten on Tyneside. Beating Liverpool to Ratiu would not just plug a gap in Howe’s squad; it would feel like payback.

They are not alone in the chase. Nottingham Forest are tracking the defender as well, with a Premier League move looking increasingly plausible for a player whose stock continues to rise after back-to-back strong campaigns in La Liga.

Ratiu produced four assists in 34 league games last season, having registered two goals and three assists in the same number of La Liga outings in 2024-25. Those numbers underline why he is seen as more than a conventional full-back. He drives forward, commits defenders and delivers from wide areas, and he is comfortable stepping higher up the pitch as a winger when needed.

That versatility has also put Barcelona on alert. The Catalan club have been linked with Ratiu, attracted by his attacking instincts and ability to operate in advanced roles. His dribbling and passing give him an extra dimension in the final third, qualities Newcastle lack in depth on the right side.

There is substance behind the flair. Ratiu relishes defensive work, reads danger well and looks to intercept rather than simply retreat. That blend of aggression without the ball and ambition with it makes him an appealing option for any side wanting modern, front-foot full-backs.

Newcastle know the competition will be fierce. Liverpool can offer the lure of regular European football, something the Magpies cannot match next season, and that could weigh heavily in the player’s decision. Forest, meanwhile, can promise a prominent role in a team still being reshaped.

For Howe and Newcastle’s hierarchy, the question is simple: can they land a defender coveted by Liverpool, Forest and Barcelona, or will another key target slip away just when they need to show they can win these battles?