Barcelona sign 19-year-old defender Jorge Salinas for €8 million

FC Barcelona will sign versatile defender Jorge Salinas, 19, from Racing Santander for €8 million. According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the transfer must be completed before June 30: after that date, the player’s release clause rises to €16 million.

Salinas is a left-back by trade but can also play centrally in defense. Despite his youth, he will be integrated directly into the first team. He has just one full season in Spanish second division to his name, during which he made 34 appearances and provided 7 assists.

The move is primarily a market opportunity. The player is represented by Jorge Mendes, an agent who has long maintained strong relations with Barcelona’s management, which facilitated negotiations.

This signing marks Barcelona’s second recruitment of the summer, following Anthony Gordon’s arrival for nearly €80 million including bonuses. The arrival of a new left-back should reignite competition at the position, with Alejandro Balde, the usual starter, having faced regular criticism over the past season.