Mendes pushes double deal as United weigh moves for Balde and Salinas before deadline

Manchester United could determine the futures of two full-backs in the same week, with agent Jorge Mendes pushing a double deal that links Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde to Old Trafford and 19-year-old Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas to the Catalan club.

United have been searching for a long-term successor to Luke Shaw, who is 31 and entering the final year of his contract. Newcastle’s Lewis Hall had been identified as the primary target, but the Magpies refused to sanction a sale, forcing the club to look elsewhere. Balde, a 22-year-old product of Barcelona’s academy, has since emerged as an alternative after losing his place under Hansi Flick at Camp Nou. Mendes has been enlisted to find the Spain international a new club and has been given the green light to explore options.

The same agent is also representing Salinas, a versatile left-back who has attracted interest from both United and Atletico Madrid. Racing Santander have made their position clear: no player leaves for less than his release clause. Sporting director Chema Aragon was blunt on the matter.

“We have already rejected a €14 million offer for Jorge Salinas,” Aragon said. “He will not leave for less than his release clause, which is €16 million. Today he is valued at €16 million, tomorrow at €16.1 million. We are an impeccable club and we will demand the release clause for all our players.”

According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Barcelona are keen to bring Salinas to Camp Nou but need to free up squad space and generate funds first — revenue that a Balde sale to United could provide. With Barcelona’s financial situation remaining fragile, officials are said to be hoping for a concrete offer from United sooner rather than later, given the transfer deadline is approaching.

United have already had a busy summer, adding Karl Darlow on a free transfer and completing a £35 million deal with Aston Villa, among other arrivals. Whether the club moves for one or both of the Mendes-linked players before the window closes remains to be seen.