Liverpool Frustrated in Transfer Talks as Iraola Eyes Second LaLiga Raid Following Muñoz Signing
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola is considering a move for Rayo Vallecano full-back Andrei Rațiu, following the signing of Victor Muñoz from Osasuna in a €40 million deal. Rațiu, a Romania international, has impressed in LaLiga and the UEFA Conference Final, and could provide a low-cost solution to Liverpool's right-back problem.
The 28-year-old's pace and stamina would be well-suited to the Premier League, and his playing style aligns with Iraola's emphasis on pressing and sprinting. Liverpool have struggled to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold since his departure to Real Madrid in 2025, with Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley failing to establish themselves in the role.
The club's experimentation with Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai in the position has also had a negative impact on their midfield strength. Iraola is looking to bolster his squad ahead of next season, with the expectation that Curtis Jones will leave the club this summer. Jones' deal expires in 2024, and Liverpool are seeking around €35 million for the 25-year-old.
However, talks with Inter Milan have stalled, with the Serie A club only willing to offer €25 million. Rațiu has a release clause of around €25 million, which may be seen as a reasonable investment by Liverpool. The club may also consider other LaLiga players, including Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo, as Iraola looks to strengthen his squad.
The 28-year-old's pace and stamina would be well-suited to the Premier League, and his playing style aligns with Iraola's emphasis on pressing and sprinting. Liverpool have struggled to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold since his departure to Real Madrid in 2025, with Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley failing to establish themselves in the role.
The club's experimentation with Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai in the position has also had a negative impact on their midfield strength. Iraola is looking to bolster his squad ahead of next season, with the expectation that Curtis Jones will leave the club this summer. Jones' deal expires in 2024, and Liverpool are seeking around €35 million for the 25-year-old.
However, talks with Inter Milan have stalled, with the Serie A club only willing to offer €25 million. Rațiu has a release clause of around €25 million, which may be seen as a reasonable investment by Liverpool. The club may also consider other LaLiga players, including Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo, as Iraola looks to strengthen his squad.
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