Manchester United target Racing Santander teenager Salinas as Atletico Madrid hesitate over £14m deal

Manchester United have moved into negotiations to sign Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas this summer, with Atletico Madrid’s hesitation opening the door for Michael Carrick’s side to pursue the 19-year-old. Santander sporting director Chema Aragon confirmed the teenager is available if his £14m release clause is met.

United’s interest stems from a pressing need at left-back. Luke Shaw enters the final year of his contract, while Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are natural right-backs pressed into makeshift roles on the opposite flank. Patrick Dorgu has adapted to the left wing rather than the defensive position, and academy prospect Harry Amass is considered too inexperienced at the top level for now.

Newcastle’s Lewis Hall had been identified as a primary target, but that pursuit has cooled following the Magpies’ significant summer departures — including Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon, and Sandro Tonali — which have complicated any outgoing business. With fewer than two weeks remaining in the transfer window, United have pivoted to alternatives.

Salinas emerged as a serious option after impressing last season, registering seven assists in 34 appearances across all competitions as Santander won promotion to La Liga. The Spain Under-19 international has also attracted interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Atletico had been expected to lead the chase but saw a £12m bid rejected and have since struggled to agree terms. Despite Santander offering Salinas a contract extension — his current deal runs until 2029 — the player is reportedly holding out for a late-window move. Atletico have now set an internal weekend deadline, with reports suggesting they will walk away entirely if no progress is made, potentially handing United a clear run.

Aragon addressed the speculation directly, expressing frustration at the daily noise surrounding his player. “You’re all going on about this every day,” he said. “First, it’s about the release clause; then, it’s about one club or another. Thankfully, the kid is focused. If someone comes along, brings the €16m, and the boy likes the team, he’ll leave.”