Man Utd eye cheap left‑back as Salinas refuses to leave

Michael Carrick’s Manchester United are targeting Racing Santander left‑back Jorge Salinas, whose €16m (£13.7m) release clause can be triggered this summer, yet the 19‑year‑old has publicly said he does not want to leave (Picture: PA).

Why United pursue Salinas

United have been forced to look beyond top target Lewis Hall for competition with Luke Shaw, and Salinas offers a significantly cheaper plan B with a built‑in release clause. His performances at the recent European Under‑19 Championship, where Spain won, have impressed the Red Devils.

Salinas broke through Racing’s academy to debut in 2024 and helped the club finish top of the Segunda División, securing promotion to La Liga for the first time since 2012. His blend of defensive solidity and attacking support makes him an attractive option for a side seeking depth at left‑back.

Implications for Racing and United

Racing manager Jose Alberto insists Salinas remains fully committed to Racing Santander and “doesn’t want to leave” for Manchester United or Barcelona at this stage of his career. He highlighted the youngster’s importance to the club’s project and warned that release clauses are the only way a player can be taken.

Sporting director Chema Aragon echoed the sentiment, saying the club would be “powerless” if a giant like United or Barcelona made a significant offer, but stressed that keeping Salinas is a dream for Racing. He noted the player’s contract runs until June 2029.

Barcelona are also linked with Salinas after Joao Cancelo’s departure, meaning United face competition for the player’s signature. Both clubs view the left‑back as a defensive reinforcement ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

United’s interest reflects a broader strategy to add competition and depth to the back line, especially after the stalled pursuit of Hall. Securing Salinas would provide a home‑grown‑style option at a fraction of other targets.

For Racing, retaining Salinas preserves the core that achieved promotion and maintains continuity as they prepare for La Liga. A potential sale would bring a substantial fee, but the club’s leadership prefers to keep the talent for the upcoming season.