Cristian Ignat has been loaned by Rapid to rival Petrolul Ploiești until the end of the season. Ignat did not play any minutes this season under Costel Gâlcă. A shoulder injury suffered by Ignat at the end of last season kept him away from the pitch, and after returning to Rapid's squad in November, he could not get into the starting eleven ahead of Ciobotariu, Kramer, or Bolgado. According to the Rapid website, Ignat stated that he is leaving with the thought of playing to gain rhythm and to come back stronger, wishing the team success and hoping they can celebrate together in the summer. Rapid sent Ignat a message wishing him good luck, a good end to the season, and to come back stronger.

Claudiu Tudor, the president of Petrolul, confirmed discussions with Rapid concerning the transfer of Sălceanu to Giulești. Tudor also mentioned the possibility of an exchange involving one of Claudiu Micovschi, Rareș Pop, or Cristian Ignat joining Petrolul. The president stated that Petrolul has also expressed interest in other players from Rapid and that an exchange is possible. He confirmed that Micovschi, Rareș Pop, and Ignat are players Petrolul wants, and said it will be seen if the transfer or transfers will happen.

Petrolul aims to sign two young players from Rapid this winter: 22-year-old Romanian centre-back Cristi Ignat and Rareș Pop. The vice president of the Ploiesti team, Cristian Fogarassy, confirmed the interest in both footballers. According to iAMsport.ro, Fogarassy stated that discussions with Rapid are in progress and expressed hope that an agreement could be reached quickly, allowing the players to join training. He specified that the negotiations were solely for a loan, without an option for a permanent transfer. This season, Cristian Ignat has not played any minutes for Rapid's coach, Costel Gâlcă. Ignat, who has been capped 14 times for the Romania U21 team, is under contract with Rapid until June 2028. His current market value is €1.00m, according to Transfermarkt.