Manchester United are continuing their search for defensive reinforcements as Michael Carrick prepares his squad for the new Premier League season.
United have already strengthened their midfield with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. However, the club still wants another option at left-back before the transfer window closes.
Lewis Hall had emerged as one of their targets, but Newcastle United have made their position clear. The Magpies have no intention of selling the England international this summer.
That stance has forced United to explore alternatives, and they could now act quickly to secure one of their other targets.
According to SPORT (via Sport Witness), Manchester United are ready to trigger Jorge Salinas‘ €16 million (£13.6 million) release clause at Racing Santander.
The 19-year-old has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. Barcelona currently have no intention of paying the release clause.
However, Atletico could soon provide serious competition for United. Atletico are waiting for Matteo Ruggeri to complete a proposed move to Aston Villa before pursuing Salinas.
Villa have reportedly agreed a package worth €18 million plus €6 million in bonuses for Ruggeri.
That development could force United to accelerate their plans if they want to avoid another transfer battle.
Salinas impressed for Racing last season, registering seven assists across 34 appearances as the club secured promotion to La Liga. He has also represented Spain at Under-19 level nine times.
Racing manager Jose Alberto Lopez has made it clear that he wants Salinas to remain at the club. However, he acknowledged that the release clause leaves Racing vulnerable if another club pays it.
United therefore have a clear route to completing the deal. Paying the clause would remove the need for lengthy negotiations with Racing. However, growing interest from Atletico means they may need to move quickly.
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