Real Madrid interested in signing 26-year-old La Liga defender in potential €15m deal: Reports

Real Madrid have set their sights on Rayo Vallecano right-back Andrei Ratiu, according to Fichajes.net. The Romanian has been in fine form this season and his performances have already earned him admirers across the continent.

Ratiu has registered one goal and assist each from 17 games across competitions this campaign. The 26-year-old is under contract with Vallecano until 2028, but reportedly has a €15m release clause in his deal.

The situation is ideal for Los Blancos, who are in the market for a new right-back. Dani Carvajal has turned 33 and is currently sidelined with an ACL injury picked up in October last year.

The Spaniard is ruled out for the rest of the campaign and the LaLiga giants are looking for his long-term replacement. Recent reports have suggested that Real Madrid have their eyes on Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold for the job.

The Englishman fits the profile Los Blancos desire for the position and has entered the final six months of his contract. The LaLiga giants are already planning to sign him for free at the end of this season.

However, there's a possibility that the 26-year-old signs an extension at Anfield, as the Merseyside club remain in talks with his camp for a new deal. As such, Real Madrid are keeping their options open and Ratiu has emerged as a candidate for the job.

The Romanian is a modern attacking right-back with admirable defensive discipline. As such, he could fit in quite well at the Santiago Bernabeu.

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How many goals have Real Madrid scored this season?

Andrei Ratiu

Real Madrid have been in a good run of form of late, despite a mixed start to the season. Carlo Ancelotti's team have won eight of the last 10 games in all competitions.

Los Blancos are currently leading the LaLiga title race after 19 game, two points ahead of second placed Atletico Madrid. However, Diego Simeone's team have a game in hand.

The reigning LaLiga champions have won 13 and lost just twice in the league so far, scoring 43 goals and conceding 19. However, Real Madrid have struggled to perform in the Champions League, where they are 20th in the table after six games.

Ancelotti's team have won three and lost three games in Europe so far. They have scored 12 goals in the Champions League, but conceded 11. Los Blancos have found the back of the net 68 times in 29 games across competitions this season.