Atletico Madrid's Interest in Salinas
Diego Simeone has reportedly given the green light for Atletico Madrid to sign defender Jorge Salinas ahead of Barcelona and Manchester United. Salinas, 19, had an exceptional season with Racing Santander in the Spanish Segunda Division last year, helping his boyhood team secure a return to La Liga after a seven-year absence.
European Clubs Show Interest
Salinas' performances have not gone unnoticed, with elite clubs across Europe showing interest. Manchester United has reportedly placed him on their shortlist of potential solutions as they search for a quality left-back to support Luke Shaw. Spanish champions Barcelona are also circling the youngster after Joao Cancelo's loan spell at Camp Nou.
Atletico Madrid's Move
According to reports, Atletico Madrid have emerged as the serious contender in this summer's transfer race for Salinas. El Nacional claims that Simeone has given the move his approval and believes the teenager fits what he needs at the club-a full-back with energy, defensive aggression, and an ability to join the attack.
Atletico Madrid is well-positioned to provide Salinas with assurances over regular first-team minutes this coming season. The report states that Atleti are aiming to become his most likely destination as they search for a long-term replacement for Matteo Ruggeri, who is rumored to be on the cusp of a £17 million move to Aston Villa.
Racing's Stance
Racing Santander manager Jose Alberto has brushed off speculation surrounding Salinas and Gustavo Puerta's futures. Both players remain committed to the club, according to Alberto, who said their professionalism doesn't surprise him but that people are constantly talking about their departures when they have contracts.
Alberto emphasized the importance of both players to Racing and stated that neither has ambitions to leave with the new season fast approaching. However, he acknowledged that if a team comes along and pays the release clause, Salinas will cease to be a Racing player.
Racing's Confidence
Racing sporting director Chema Aragon was less confident about Salinas staying put. He admitted that there is little they can do if a 'giant' appears. 'We value the assets we have, we consider them important,' Aragon conceded. 'For the club, at this time, there is no other option than to try to strengthen the team and not weaken it by losing stars.'
Aragon continued: 'Hopefully he stays. It would be our dream. We're going to try everything we can to make it happen, just like we did in the winter with Gustavo Puerta. But it's also true that if significant offers come in, it will be more complicated.'
United have been keeping close tabs on Salinas for some time and were especially enamoured by his displays at this summer's European Under-19 Championship, where Spain emerged triumphant.
Salinas' current contract with Racing runs through to June 2029.
