A gray-haired man in a dark suit and white jersey is in front of a yellow background with the Villarreal CF crest.

Atlético Madrid Fights Villarreal for the Euro Cup Revelation

The red-and-white club is after this LaLiga player.

Atlético de Madrid is experiencing a great sporting moment and has entered a key phase of the season. In the coming month, the rojiblancos will play crucial matches to continue with aspirations of winning a title this year. However, the rojiblanca sports management is already thinking about signings for the next season. 

New T-jersey
Atlético celebrating | Europa Press

The club invested a large amount last summer and the intention this year is the same. They want to compete for top players with the best clubs in Europe, and to do so, they will need to make great offers. However, for a signing to be good, it doesn't have to be expensive; there are players in LaLiga whose level is very high. This is the case of a right-back who has been on the rojiblanca's radar for some time and whose season is being spectacular. 

A Pillar in Rayo Vallecano

Rayo Vallecano is being one of the great revelations of the season. The team coached by Íñigo Pérez is sixth in the standings, in European positions, and major clubs are taking notice of their players. One of the most outstanding in LaLiga and the European Championship is the Romanian right-back, Andrei Ratiu, followed by Atlético de Madrid

His level hasn't gone unnoticed at the rojiblanco club, which is already making plans to approach his signing at the end of the season. Given Nahuel Molina's inconsistency, Ratiu would be a magnificent reinforcement for Simeone, as he combines physicality, commitment, and good technical qualities. However, his signing won't be easy, as the competition is enormous. 

Competition Across Europe

Ratiu's name appears on the agenda of several of the best clubs in Europe, and it's no wonder given his level. According to media like Mundo Deportivo, FC Barcelona has been closely following his evolution for some time. Additionally, Tottenham and Roma have also shown interest in who was one of the best defenders of the last European Championship. 

Football player in white and red jersey on the playing field.
Ratiu this season | Europa Press

His clause is 25 million euros, but not all would go to Rayo Vallecano. Villarreal owns 50% of the player's rights and seems to be interested in bringing him back. If Atlético wants to secure his signing, they will have to compete with several of the best clubs across Europe.