Barcelona relying on agent to unblock €8m defender deal | OneFootball

Barcelona are hoping to finalise their second summer signing before the transfer window opens on Wednesday. They already have an agreement in place with Jorge Salinas, but getting a deal done with Real Racing Club de Santander is proving challenging.

The situation with Salinas is complex. Barcelona believe the 19-year-old’s release clause is €8m, whereas Racing say the value is €16m. The two clubs have been working towards an agreement that suits both parties, but until now, talks have been without success.

Barcelona want to wrap up a deal by Tuesday, as they do not want to lose any advantage they could have during negotiations with Racing. In order to get everything done quickly, they have instructed super-agent Jorge Mendes to act as mediator, as per Sport.

Mendes, who has a close relationship with several personnel at Barcelona including president-elect Joan Laporta, is Salinas’ agent. He’s been involved with the Catalans regarding this deal, and they have now asked him to go to Racing and help the two clubs reach an amicable agreement in the next 48 hours.

Salinas would join Hansi Flick’s squad if signed

In the event that Mendes manages to broker a deal between Barcelona and Racing, Salinas would immediately travel to Catalonia to finalise arrangements. He would then look forward to working under Hansi Flick during pre-season, with the plan also being for him to remain as part of the first team for the 2026-27 season.

Barcelona see Salinas a very good defensive option. He can operate as a centre-back or left-back, which are two positions that have question marks having over them going into the 2026-27 season. He would have chances to break into the starting line-up, and considering he’s only 19, he could end up cementing himself as a starter for many years to come.