Barcelona have continued to explore options to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, with defensive depth becoming one of the areas being monitored by the club’s recruitment department.
The Catalan side are looking at younger profiles who can provide long-term solutions while fitting into the club’s sporting project.
The left-back position has become an area of focus, especially with Barca searching for players who can develop into important figures over the coming years.
Several names have been linked with a move to Catalonia, including one of Spain’s emerging young defenders.
However, any potential move for Jorge Salinas could prove complicated, with his current club Racing Santander making it clear that Barcelona would have to meet their expectations.
The 19-year-old has attracted attention from Barca after impressing at senior level, but Racing have now addressed the situation surrounding his contract.
Reports had suggested that Jorge Salinas had an €8 million release clause that would increase to €16 million from July 1, but Racing Santander have rejected that interpretation.
The club’s communications director Roberto Gonzalez explained that the defender’s valuation had already changed after reaching certain conditions in his deal.
Speaking to Teiba Sport , as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Gonzalez said, “There’s no mention of specific dates. Nothing changes from June 30 to July 1.
“As we see it, it’s very clear that Racing has been a First Division team for over a month.”
According to Racing’s explanation, Salinas originally had a €4 million clause before that figure doubled once he reached ten appearances for the first team.
Following Racing’s promotion to the top division, the club believe the defender’s release clause now stands at €16 million regardless of the date.
Barcelona are not the only factor in the situation, as Racing remain determined to protect one of their most valuable young assets.
The club view Salinas as a key part of their future plans and are not actively looking to lose him unless the right conditions are met.
Gonzalez referenced previous high-profile exits as examples of how Racing handle their important players, saying, “We don’t haggle over key players, and Jorge is one of them. They had to pay the buyout clause for Peque, Jeremy.”
Despite that firm stance, Racing have not completely closed the door on negotiations with Barcelona. Gonzalez added, “The buyout clause is the starting point. Beyond that, we’re not stubborn.
“If they pay less than the buyout clause and a top-notch player comes along, the sports management might still accept it.”
The comments suggest there could still be room for an agreement if Barca present a suitable proposal, potentially including alternative structures such as player exchanges, but Racing’s position makes it clear that Salinas will not leave cheaply.
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