While Barcelona’s transfer market focus appears to be on strengthening their attack, defensive reinforcements have been a recurring theme throughout the year, with the summer transfer window highlighted as a potential period for such moves. For the second time this year, the Catalan club is reportedly showing interest in one of Spain’s emerging talents.
Initially, it was believed that Barcelona’s primary summer acquisition would be Alessandro Bastoni, but this potential move faltered due to uncertainties surrounding Hansi Flick’s role. However, as the season progressed, Barcelona has been consistently linked with various defensive players, as few positions in their backline are considered secure for the upcoming season.
Second Interest in Jorge Salinas Emerges
Following their Copa del Rey victory against Racing Santander, which Barcelona won 2-1, reports indicated that the Blaugrana were impressed by defender Jorge Salinas, despite him not participating in that particular match. Now, local Cantabrian outlets Arco FM and Diario Montanes have reiterated Barcelona’s continued interest in the 19-year-old. According to quotes from MD, Salinas has a contract until 2029, with his release clause set at approximately €10 million. The involvement of Jorge Mendes, Salinas’ agent and a figure with close ties to Barcelona, could potentially expedite a transfer.
A Versatile and Talented Prospect
Salinas offers versatility, capable of playing both as a left-back and a central defender, though he has predominantly featured at left-back for Racing Santander this season. He made 33 appearances and contributed seven assists to Racing’s promotion back to La Liga. Salinas has also represented Spain at the under-19 level, earning five caps and scoring twice from his position at center-back. He is slated to participate in the upcoming U19 Euros for Spain. It is highly probable that if Barcelona does not pursue him, Racing Santander will face competition from other clubs for his signature.
English Translation:
Barcelona Linked with 19-Year-Old Defender with €10m Release Clause
Although Barcelona seems to be concentrating their transfer market efforts on improving their offense, for much of the year, it has been suggested that their defense would be one of the priorities in the summer transfer window. For the second time this year, the Blaugrana are being linked with a move for one of Spain’s emerging young stars.
Initially, it seemed that Barcelona’s first move this summer would be to sign Alessandro Bastoni, although that move has collapsed due to uncertainty on Hansi Flick’s side. However, throughout the second half of the season, the Catalans have been linked with defenders across the backline, with few spots certain for next season.
Barcelona Linked with Jorge Salinas for a Second Time
Following their Copa del Rey clash, which Barcelona won 2-1, it was reported that the Blaugrana were impressed by Racing Santander defender Jorge Salinas, even though he did not feature in that tie. Now, Arco FM and Diario Montanes, local Cantabrian outlets, have reported that Barcelona remains interested in the 19-year-old. MD quotes their report, noting that he has a contract until 2029, but his release clause is in the region of €10 million. Salinas’ agent is Jorge Mendes, whose close relationship with Barcelona could help facilitate a deal.
A Versatile and Promising Defender
Salinas can play both at left-back and in central defense, although he has spent much of this season at left-back for Racing. Making 33 appearances, Salinas provided seven assists as Racing won promotion back to La Liga. Salinas has been playing at center-back for the Spain under-19 side, where he has earned five caps and scored twice. He will be part of the under-19 Euros squad for La Roja this summer too. It seems likely that if it is not Barcelona, Racing will have to fend off interest from elsewhere as well.
