Fulham in talks for Rayo Vallecano defender Ratiu

Andrei Ratiu has played 104 games for Rayo Vallecano [Getty Images] Fulham are in talks to sign Romania defender Andrei Ratiu from Rayo Vallecano. Talks are continuing over a deal for the 28-year-old, who is open to a move to Craven Cottage. Alvaro Arbeloa's side are looking to strengthen in defence. Ratiu is primarily a right-back but is capable of playing in other positions. Romania-born Ratiu has spent almost his entire club career in Spain since joining Villarreal's academy, apart from a loan spell at Dutch club ADO Den Haag. He left Villarreal for Huesca before making his La Liga debut for Rayo Vallecano following his move in 2023. Arbeloa, who replaced Marco Silva as Fulham boss this summer, is keen to add to his squad before Tuesday night's transfer deadline. The Cottagers have signed striker Gonzalo Garcia and attacker Cesar Palacios from Real Madrid, along with midfielder Shea Charles from Southampton. They have also made forward Jonah Kusi-Asare's loan move from Bayern Munich permanent. Fulham suffered a 3-2 home defeat by rivals Chelsea in their Premier League opener on Monday, but beat AFC Wimbledon 3-0 in the Carabao Cup on Thursday. Arbeloa on De Fougerolles, transfers and paying to watch Palacios Ask about Fulham - what do you want to know?