Barcelona’s Jorge Salinas plans hit by Racing Santander’s €16m demand

Barcelona’s pursuit of Racing Santander defender Jorge Salinas has become more difficult after the Spanish club insisted they will only sell the teenage prospect if his €16m release clause is paid in full.

The 19-year-old is being closely monitored by Barcelona, who believe they remain in a strong position to sign him despite interest from several prominent European clubs. Salinas is understood to favour a move to Camp Nou, although a number of other offers are available to him.

Racing Santander sporting director Chema Aragon has made clear that the club will not reduce its asking price for the Spain Under-? defender, who can operate at left-back or in central defence. In comments reported by Mundo Deportivo, Aragon said Racing Santander would only sanction a transfer if a club met the full value of the player’s release clause.

Barcelona are currently offering about €6m, well below the figure demanded by Racing Santander.

The club’s position is based on a desire to protect its sporting assets and retain its most important players. Aragon said: “We hope they stay”, referring to Salinas and Puerta, but acknowledged that the situation could change if a major club makes an offer matching the release clause.

He added: “We have no choice if a big star appears”.

Aragon also said Racing Santander would consider improving Salinas’ contract if the defender remains with the squad after the transfer window closes. Any new terms would reflect his growing importance to the team.

The sporting director praised Salinas’ attitude and professionalism, saying the player “acts perfectly” and has shown no desire to leave. He also highlighted the defender’s work during pre-season, noting that Salinas returned in good physical condition.

Aragon said: “If he stays, his development will have to be reflected in his contract”.

Salinas has emerged as one of the most highly regarded young talents in Spanish football after impressing for Racing Santander and helping the club win promotion to La Liga. His progress has attracted attention from Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico de Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Porto, Bologna and Eintracht Frankfurt.

Barcelona’s interest is based not only on his potential but also on a profile that fits the club’s plans for the future. Salinas is naturally left-footed, a quality that remains relatively uncommon in the transfer market, and is capable of performing as either a left-sided centre-back or a left-back.

Barcelona scouts are also reported to admire his ability to build attacks from deep, his confidence in possession and his composure under pressure. His physical presence and competitive nature are further qualities that have increased his appeal to the Catalan club.

However, unless Barcelona significantly increase their offer or another club pays the €16m clause, Racing Santander intend to keep control of the situation. Salinas’ preference for a move to Barcelona gives the club encouragement, but Aragon’s comments underline the financial challenge facing the Catalan side during the summer transfer window.