Barcelona continue to monitor 18-year-old Racing Santander left-back – Report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are set to face Racing Santander tonight in the Round of 16 of the Copa del Rey. While the Catalans are clear favorites, they will need to deliver on the pitch to advance to the next stage of the competition.

Beyond securing progression in the tournament, Barcelona have another task in mind as they travel to Santander. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugranes have been monitoring Racing’s 18-year-old left-back Jorge Salinas for some time. This match presents a perfect opportunity for Barcelona to evaluate Salinas’ abilities firsthand.

Salinas is regarded as one of Racing’s brightest prospects and has been making waves in Spain’s Segunda División. A regular starter this season, he stands out for his ability to combine defensive solidity with attacking threat from the left flank.

His speed, movement, and ball distribution make him an asset both as a full-back and occasionally as a left-sided center-back due to his versatility.

Photo Credit: The official website of Racing de Santander

Born in Santander on April 3, 2007, Salinas began his football journey at local clubs Marina Sport, Monte, and Bansander before joining Racing’s youth academy. He made his senior debut with Racing’s reserve side, Rayo Cantabria, in August 2024, and played his first match for the first team in the Copa del Rey against Sporting de Gijón in December of the same year.

Salinas has also been recognized at the national level, earning call-ups to Spain’s U18 and U19 squads, reflecting his potential for the future. Racing has secured his services until 2029, highlighting his value to the club, while top division teams such as Celta Vigo have reportedly expressed interest in the young talent.

Tonight, all eyes will be on Salinas as he faces one of the biggest clubs in Spain. Barcelona will not only aim to secure a Copa del Rey victory but also assess whether this promising left-back has what it takes to make the leap to the top tier of Spanish football.