Manchester United have identified Jorge Salinas as a key target, but will only move for the Racing Santander starlet on one condition, according to a new report.
Spanish Starlet
Salinas, 19, has enjoyed a superb year after propelling Racing Santander to the Segunda Division title, Spain’s second division, securing promotion to La Liga and notching six assists in the process.
The youngster then followed this up by winning the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in Wales with Spain, where he was one of the “standout performers” for La Roja, TEAMtalk reports.
Predominantly a left-back, Salinas is also capable of playing in central defence. He stands 6’0″ tall and is strong in duels while being excellent on the ball – as is required for a Spaniard in any position, even in goal.
FC Barcelona are understood to have already held talks over a deal, with the Catalan club considered frontrunners for his signature. Atletico Madrid have also expressed interest.
To help with preparations for their return to La Liga, Racing would prefer not to lose their academy graduate. A price tag of around €17 million (£14m) has been set to change this stance.
The report claims Barcelona are “unwilling to offer more than €8million, leaving discussions ongoing.” But this has allowed the Red Devils to storm into the race for the defensive protégé.
United enter the race
While a major revamp in midfield is Manchester United’s priority this summer, INEOS are also on the hunt for a new left-back to provide competition to Luke Shaw.
Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall is understood to be the leading target, even if the Magpies would be loath to lose the 21-year-old England international to a direct rival.
In spite of this, the Red Devils are pressing ahead with a pursuit, emboldened by Eddie Howe’s shock decision to leave St James’ Park. However, if Newcastle refuse to entertain Hall’s departure, Salinas is considered “one of the leading alternatives” on the list.
TEAMtalk reveals the recruitment team at Old Trafford delivered “glowing scouting reports” on the defender after his exploits at the U-19 Euros.
“United’s recruitment staff believe Salinas is capable of making the step up to first-team football immediately, which is why his name has climbed rapidly up the club’s shortlist.”
Other options on the radar are Barcelona speedster Alejandro Balde and Archie Brown of Fenerbahce, though neither are considered likely prospects. If the Blaugrana were to sign Salinas, however, that may force Balde through the exit door at Camp Nou.
Final Thoughts: The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 6/10
Why?
Manchester United’s interest in a new left-back has been confirmed by multiple outlets.
Salinas fits the profile INEOS have sought to prioritise since taking charge at Old Trafford.
No official confirmation of interest or offers yet.
TEAMtalk is not the most reliable source for Man United updates.
TPP view: We believe Manchester United may well be interested in Jorge Salinas, but advise caution on a pursuit until a more reliable source confirms it.
Featured image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images
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