Barcelona pushes to finalize Jorge Salinas transfer from Racing Santander

Barcelona aims to complete the transfer of 19-year-old defender Jorge Salinas from Racing Santander before July 1, when his release clause could increase from €8 million to €16 million. Negotiations have been complicated by differing interpretations of the clause's activation due to Racing's promotion to La Liga. Jorge Mendes, Salinas' agent, is central to resolving the issue and has a tight timeline to broker an agreement. Barcelona remains optimistic that a deal can be reached, possibly involving a loan of a La Masia player to facilitate the transaction, with Salinas eager to join the club for pre-season training.

• 9:50 AMYahoo Sports — Jorge Mendes the key to unlocking Barcelona’s move for teenage Spanish defender