Barcelona cool interest in defensive target following Alejandro Balde decision | OneFootball

Barcelona are hoping to make at least one more signing before the summer transfer window closes next week. The Catalans have already done good business with the additions of Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Rodri and Joao Cancelo, but a couple of extra new faces would complete Hansi Flick’s squad for the 2026-27 season.

Barcelona are still holding out hope to sign Julian Alvarez as their starting striker, but with Atletico Madrid still determined not to sell to a direct rival, they may be forced to give up that dream. If they do, it’s likely that a defender is targeted instead, with the intention being to secure the services of a centre-back option to cover Ronald Araujo’s absence following his move to Liverpool.

Barcelona’s possible move for a new defender would be independent of their desire to sign Jorge Salinas, whom they have been chasing for the entire summer. Racing de Santander, like Atleti, are playing hardball for the 19-year-old, and due to Alejandro Balde now being expected to remain part of Hansi Flick’s squad, MD say that a move is no longer on the cards.

Barcelona will be kept apprised of Salinas situation

Barcelona would have looked to sign Salinas as Balde’s replacement if the La Masia graduate had sought a move away, but given that he wants to stay, a deal for the Racing man is now unlikely. However, it is not ruled out completely, with the report noting that the club has asked to be kept up-to-date with the situation by his agent Jorge Mendes, who has close ties with Joan Laporta.

Racing have been making preparations for Salinas’ possible exit, with a deal having been agreed for Ulisses García. But at this stage, Barcelona are not favourites to sign the 2026 U19 Euros winner, with Atleti in a better place to secure his signature if they make their own move before next week’s deadline.