Racing Santander manager Jose Alberto has insisted that Jorge Salinas is committed to the club and "doesn't want to leave" this summer, hitting out at the constant transfer rumours linking the left-back with Manchester United and Barcelona.
Salinas' rise at Racing
Salinas, 19, progressed through Racing's youth system before making his first-team debut in 2024. Since then, he has established himself as one of the most promising young defenders in Spanish football.
Last season, the teenage left-back played a key role as Racing won the La Liga 2 title and secured promotion to the top flight for the first time in 14 years. His performances have attracted interest from United and Barcelona, both looking to strengthen their defences.
United's search for a left-back
United have been forced to consider alternatives to Lewis Hall after Newcastle United made it clear he is not for sale this summer. Barcelona, meanwhile, are looking to replace Joao Cancelo following his return to Al-Hilal.
Salinas has emerged as a top target for both clubs, but he remains a key part of Racing's plans for the new La Liga season. He started Friday's pre-season friendly against Alaves.
Alberto's frustration
Speaking about Salinas and teammate Gustavo Puerta, who has been linked with a big-money move to Roma, Alberto expressed his frustration: "Their professionalism doesn't surprise me. What surprises me is that people are constantly talking about the departure of two of our players, when they have contracts and are our players."
Alberto added that both players are "very important" to Racing and that neither has indicated a desire to leave, with the new La Liga season starting this weekend.
"They're very important to us," he said. "I don't want them to leave. And they show every day that they don't either. But we know how this world works and there are release clauses. If a team comes along and pays the clause, they cease to be our players."
Racing's stance
Alberto insisted that Salinas and Puerta remain Racing players ahead of Sunday's La Liga opener against Villarreal. "Until that happens, it really bothers me that these things are being discussed," he continued. "They're Racing players, and as they've shown, they want to be here."
Last week, Racing sporting director Chema Aragon made similar comments, but admitted the club would be powerless if a "giant" like United or Barca made a significant bid. "There's little you can do if a giant appears," Aragon said. "We value the assets we have, we consider them important. 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. The reality is that the club that wants him has to come along with an offer."
