Barcelona face strong competition for 19-year-old full-back with PSG, Atletico also keen | OneFootball

Jorge Salinas, the 19-year-old Racing Santander defender who has excelled this season at left-back, is firmly on FC Barcelona’s radar.

As already reported, the Catalan club’s sporting department has been closely monitoring his progress and has produced highly favourable scouting reports.

Growing competition for Salinas

However, now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are not alone in tracking his development. Atletico Madrid are also following him closely, while reigning European champions PSG are also keen.

Moreover, some clubs from both the Premier League and Bundesliga have shown strong interest. Among those monitoring the defender are Bayer Leverkusen, Newcastle United, Porto and Bologna.

Jorge Salinas (R) is in demand. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Salinas featured in 34 matches for Racing Santander this season across La Liga 2 and the Copa del Rey, starting 31 of them.

His performances throughout the campaign have only strengthened his standing among Europe’s leading scouts, and with several major clubs circling, the race for his signature could become one of the most closely watched transfer stories this summer.

Contract until 2029 with a release clause

Salinas is under contract with Racing Santander until 2029, meaning Barcelona would need to negotiate a transfer rather than activate a simple release clause.

His original release clause stood at €4 million, but Racing president Manolo Higuera has confirmed that it has since increased. Reports differ on the exact figure, with some suggesting it has risen to €16 million, while others place it closer to €8 million.

Jorge Mendes (R) represents Salinas. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

One factor that could potentially work in Barça’s favour is the involvement of agent Jorge Mendes, who represents the player and maintains a strong relationship with the Catalan club.

Amid doubts over the future of Alejandro Balde at the club, Salinas could serve as a possible reinforcement at left-back for Barcelona.

However, given his lack of experience at the highest level, there may even be a possibility that the Catalans sign him and loan him out for another season, possibly back to Racing Santander, who have been promoted to La Liga.