Racing Santander block Barcelona’s deal for 19-year-old defender over release clause dispute | OneFootball

FC Barcelona and Deco have a lot of work to do for Hansi Flick ahead of the new season, despite already securing the signing of Anthony Gordon.

The Catalan club have been heavily linked with a move for talented teenage defender Jorge Salinas from Racing Santander to add depth to their defence.

However, according to SPORT, Barcelona’s move for Salinas has hit a pause due to a disagreement between the two clubs. The issue is not with the player.

Salinas wants the move, and Barca remain in front despite interest from Villarreal, Atletico Madrid, and Premier League clubs.

The problem is Racing Santander’s interpretation of his release clause. The Cantabrian club believe the fee is now €16 million after promotion to La Liga, while Barcelona and the player’s camp argue that the increase should only apply from 1 July.

That difference is holding up the operation. Barca believe they can still sign the 19-year-old for €8 million before 30 June, but Racing are pushing for the higher figure.

Barca must decide how hard to push

Salinas fits a very clear need. He is left-footed, versatile, and capable of playing as a central defender or on the left side of defence. For Hansi Flick, that kind of profile is valuable in pre-season.

Barcelona are also looking at ways to make the deal more acceptable for Racing, including the possible loan of a young academy player. Jan Virgili has been mentioned as one option.

The timing is awkward because Salinas has joined Spain Under-19s for the European Championship. While he focuses on the tournament, the clubs must solve the financial disagreement quickly.

From a Barca perspective, this is exactly the kind of deal that requires decisiveness. Paying €8 million for a talented Spanish defender makes sense. Paying €16 million changes the calculation completely.

The encouraging part is that Barcelona still seem to have the player’s preference. Now the club must turn that advantage into an agreement before the deadline closes.