Barcelona remain in contact over Atletico Madrid defensive target; move dependent on Alejandro Balde

Barcelona remain in contact over Atletico Madrid defensive target; move dependent on Alejandro Balde Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are both keeping tabs on Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas as the final days of the summer transfer window approach, reports Gabriel Sans of Mundo Deportivo . The two clubs have been in contact with Racing in recent days, although their respective interest in the defender is being driven by very different circumstances. To begin with, Atletico have a more immediate need for reinforcements on the left side, while Barcelona’s pursuit of Salinas is linked to the future of Alejandro Balde. The Catalan club had appeared to be considering a move for the Racing defender as a potential replacement should Balde leave.  However, with Barcelona’s position on Balde shifting and the player now more likely to remain , the urgency surrounding a deal for Salinas has reduced. That said, Barcelona have not completely closed the door. Barcelona remain in contact through Jorge Mendes Barcelona have not ruled out Jorge Salinas just yet. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) Despite their cooling interest, Barcelona have kept the possibility of signing Salinas alive through his agent, Jorge Mendes. The Portuguese super-agent also represents Balde and has been involved in discussions surrounding both players, allowing Barcelona to remain informed about Salinas’ situation while they continue to assess their own squad. Barcelona’s change of heart regarding Balde appears to have had a direct effect on their transfer strategy.  What had looked like a potential opening for a departure has narrowed considerably, making an immediate replacement less of a priority. However, with the transfer market still open, the club is unwilling to rule anything out completely. Atletico Madrid could move first Atletico Madrid remain interested in Jorge Salinas. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) Atletico’s interest , meanwhile, appears to be more straightforward. The Madrid club need to address a gap on the left side, making Salinas an increasingly attractive option as they look to finalise their squad before the window closes. Racing Santander are aware of the growing attention around their player and are already making preparations for the possibility of losing him. The club is said to be working on bringing in another left-back, concerned that Salinas could leave before the end of the window.  For now, Atletico are currently considered the more likely destination, although Barcelona also remain in the picture.