Jorge Mendes the key to unlocking Barcelona’s move for teenage Spanish defender

Jorge Mendes the key to unlocking Barcelona’s move for teenage Spanish defender Barcelona are entering a decisive phase in their pursuit of Racing Santander defender Jorge Salinas, with the next few days expected to determine whether the deal can be completed before a significant increase in the player’s release clause takes effect. The Blaugrana are eager to finalize the transfer before 1 July, when the cost of signing the highly rated defender could potentially double. A dispute over the release clause The main obstacle remains the interpretation of Salinas’ release clause . Racing Santander argue that their promotion to La Liga has already activated a clause increasing his buyout fee from €8 million to €16 million. Barcelona and the player’s representatives disagree. They believe the increase should only become effective once the current season officially concludes on 30 June, meaning the defender’s release clause should remain at €8 million until then. Salinas wants to join Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) That disagreement has temporarily stalled negotiations. Jorge Mendes takes centre stage With both clubs holding firm, attention has shifted to Jorge Mendes, who represents Salinas, reports SPORT . The Portuguese superagent enjoys an excellent relationship with Barcelona and has now become the central figure in attempts to bridge the gap between the two clubs. According to those close to the negotiations, Mendes has just over two days to help broker an agreement before the calendar begins to work against Barcelona. Barcelona still believe a deal is possible Despite the deadlock, there remains optimism inside Camp Nou. Barcelona believe there is still room for a compromise that satisfies everyone involved. The club maintains that a fee close to €8 million fairly reflects the player’s current market situation, arguing that Salinas has only just earned promotion and has yet to establish himself in Spain’s top flight. To persuade Racing Santander to soften their stance, Barcelona continue exploring alternative structures for the deal. One option still under discussion is including the loan of a promising La Masia youngster as part of the agreement, reducing the amount of cash required while offering Racing additional sporting value for their return to La Liga. Jorge Mendes will hold the key. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images) Barcelona are also aware that time is not their only concern. Both Villarreal and Atletico Madrid continue monitoring Salinas’ situation and remain ready to act should negotiations collapse. The 19-year-old is regarded as one of Spain’s most promising young defenders, making him an attractive target for several clubs. Salinas wants Barcelona One factor continues to work strongly in Barcelona’s favour. Salinas has already made it clear that his priority is joining Hansi Flick’s project, and there is already a preliminary agreement between the player and the Catalan club . Once an agreement is reached with Racing Santander, Barcelona intend for Salinas to join the first-team squad immediately for pre-season rather than spending time with the reserve side. While Salinas is currently away with Spain’s U-19 national team for the European Championship, negotiations continue behind the scenes. Barcelona know the clock is ticking. With 1 July rapidly approaching and Mendes now leading efforts to resolve the dispute, the coming hours could prove decisive in determining whether Salinas becomes the club’s second summer signing following Anthony Gordon.