Fulham chase Rayo Vallecano right‑back as deadline looms

Fulham are in talks to sign Romania defender Andrei Ratiu from Rayo Vallecano, with the 28‑year‑old right‑back reportedly open to a move to Craven Cottage as the London club rushes to bolster its defence before the Tuesday night transfer deadline.

Why Fulham target Ratiu

Alvaro Arbeloa wants to add depth to a defence that has already seen new arrivals. The former Barcelona defender believes Ratiu’s ability to play across the back line fits the Cottagers’ tactical plans. A move to Craven Cottage would give the Romanian a Premier League platform.

Ratiu's Spanish pedigree

Andrei Ratiu, born in Romania, joined Villarreal’s academy and spent the bulk of his career in Spain. Apart from a Dutch loan spell at ADO Den Haag, he left Villarreal for Huesca before making his La Liga debut with Rayo Vallecano after moving there in 2023. He has already logged 104 games for the Spanish side.

Fulham have been active this window, securing striker Gonzalo Garcia and attacker Cesar Palacios from Real Madrid, and adding midfielder Shea Charles from Southampton. Forward Jonah Kusi‑Asare’s loan from Bayern Munich has also been made permanent, signalling a broader squad overhaul.

The Cottagers suffered a 3‑2 home loss to Chelsea in their Premier League opener on Monday, but bounced back with a 3‑0 Carabao Cup win over AFC Wimbledon on Thursday. Those results underline the urgency behind Arbeloa’s defensive recruitment before the transfer deadline.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Andrei Ratiu has played 104 games for Rayo Vallecano. The accompanying Image underscores the Football media coverage surrounding the potential deal.

With Tuesday night looming, Fulham hope to finalise Ratiu’s transfer and integrate him into the squad. A successful signing would complete Arbeloa’s pre‑deadline overhaul and give the club a versatile option at right‑back.