Jorge Salinas is a target for Barcelona and Atlético, forcing Racing Santander to act in the transfer market for Ulises García. The 30-year-old Swiss international, currently at Olympique de Marseille, is at the centre of a three-way negotiation involving the Cantabrian club, the rojiblancos and the azulgrana, Mundo Deportivo reported on Tuesday.
Why must Racing act now on Ulises García?
The simultaneous interest from Barcelona and Atlético in Jorge Salinas has accelerated Racing’s plans. If Salinas leaves Santander, the club needs to reinforce its left-back position and sees Ulises García as a viable exit option. The Swiss defender, an international for his country, has a contract with Marseille but is open to a return to Spain, where he previously played.
What role does Jorge Mendes play in this operation?
Jorge Mendes, who represents both Jorge Salinas and Alejandro Balde, is mediating between the parties. His dual role allows him to channel contacts between Racing, Atlético and Barcelona, although no formal offers for Salinas have been made yet. Mendes also manages Balde’s potential exit, which could open the door for Barcelona to sign a left-back if the player ultimately decides not to renew.
How does Balde’s situation affect Barcelona’s interest in Salinas?
Barcelona could sign Jorge Salinas if Alejandro Balde leaves the club. The culé board is evaluating all options for the left-back position, and Salinas appears as an alternative if Balde departs. For now, neither move is finalised, but the shared agent keeps the conversations active.
What contextual data surrounds Barcelona at this moment?
Barcelona currently sits fifth in La Liga with 3 points, from one win, zero draws and zero losses in one match played, with a goal difference of +5 after scoring five and conceding none. They are three points behind leaders Sevilla and their next fixture is at home against Rayo Vallecano on 31 August. You can follow the league table on our standings page and check the full schedule on our fixtures page.
This transfer movement shows how one club’s operations can trigger chain reactions elsewhere. Racing does not want to be caught short if Salinas leaves, while Barcelona and Atlético monitor any sign of weakness in Santander’s defence. Everything will depend on whether Balde finally decides his future and whether Marseille agrees to negotiate for Ulises García, whose international experience and age make him an attractive asset for La Liga.
