Manchester United could reportedly gatecrash negotiations to sign Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas this summer, with the Spanish club's sporting director admitting the teenager could leave if his £14m release clause is met.
United's left-back search
United are seeking a new left-back this summer as Luke Shaw enters the final year of his contract. While Patrick Dorgu has shifted comfortably to the left wing, makeshift options Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui remain natural right-backs.
Academy prospect Harry Amass is another candidate, though he lacks top-flight experience. Newcastle's Lewis Hall emerged as a primary target due to his Premier League experience and potential.
Newcastle deal stalls
However, a deal now looks unlikely following the Magpies' major summer departures - including Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon, and Sandro Tonali. With less than two weeks left in the transfer window, United must quickly pivot to alternative targets.
Another name being linked with a move to Old Trafford is Racing Santander's Salinas. The 19-year-old impressed last term with his performances helping the Spanish club earn promotion to La Liga.
Salinas impresses in Spain
The teenager, who has also been linked with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, registered seven assists in 34 games across all competitions last term.
Recent reports from Spanish publication Infobae have offered United hope of a potential deal. It is claimed that Atletico are having difficulty signing the defender, having seen a £12m proposal rejected by Santander.
Atletico set deadline
The Spanish side have reportedly offered a contract extension to Salinas, whose current deal runs until 2029, but the player is said to be holding out for late transfer window moves.
While Atletico were expected to push for the Spain U19 international, their hesitation has reportedly allowed United to step in. Spurred by Michael Carrick's side joining the race, Atletico have reportedly set a weekend deadline to seal the deal - warning they will walk away and hand the Reds a clear run at the youngster if progress is not made.
Santander sporting director Aragon has also had his say via SportWitness on the transfer speculation - expressing frustration at the constant noise.
He said: “You’re all going on about this every day. First, it’s about the release clause; then, it’s about one club or another.
“Thankfully, the kid is focused. If someone comes along, brings the €16m, and the boy likes the team, he’ll leave.”
