Manchester United have reportedly identified Jorge Salinas as their 'plan B' should they fail to secure a deal for Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall. The Red Devils have already strengthened their midfield with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, but the focus has now shifted to left-back, where Hall is the top priority.
United's Left-Back Search Intensifies
Hall has established himself as one of the Premier League's most promising young full-backs over the past three years at Newcastle, and his omission from Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad surprised many. Eddie Howe's recent departure from St James' Park has fueled speculation that key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Hall could follow him out the door.
According to Spanish newspaper SPORT, United are 'very serious' about Salinas and view the 19-year-old as their 'plan B' at left-back this summer. The club is prepared to trigger his €16m (£13.7m) release clause at Racing Santander. However, Salinas is reportedly 'prioritising' a move to Barcelona, who are preparing for Joao Cancelo's departure to Al-Hilal.
Salinas: A Rising Star
Salinas made his senior debut for Racing Santander in 2024 and has since made 37 appearances, contributing seven assists. He played a key role in the club's Segunda Division title win last season, securing their return to La Liga for the first time since 2012. His performances at the European Under-19 Championship, where Spain triumphed, have impressed United's scouts.
Despite his youth, United believe Salinas could immediately compete with Luke Shaw for a starting spot under Michael Carrick. His current contract with Racing Santander runs until June 2029, but the release clause offers an affordable opportunity.
Hall Remains the Priority
For now, Hall remains United's primary target. Newcastle are reluctant to sell, and any deal would likely exceed £50m. Jermaine Jenas, a former Newcastle and England midfielder, believes a move to Old Trafford would be a 'great move' for Hall.
“I think it’s a great move for him, I really do,” Jenas told 10bet. “He’s had a fantastic couple of years at Newcastle. I think he was obviously a huge Newcastle United fan after going there from Chelsea and so on, but he’s one of those players that people looked at and said he should probably be at the World Cup.”
Jenas added: “Like I said, he’s had a good, solid year; his development year-in, year-out seems to be getting better and better. For a club like Manchester United to come in for him is a huge step in the right direction—not only for United, because he’s just consistent week-in, week-out, but it’s also a big loss for Newcastle, I’m not going to lie. For him and his personal career, it’s a great move.”
What's Next?
United's pursuit of Salinas could intensify if Barcelona's interest wanes. The Spanish champions' move has stalled in recent weeks, giving United an opening. With the release clause set at a modest £13.7m, Salinas represents a low-risk investment with high potential.
Meanwhile, Hall's situation remains fluid, with Newcastle under no pressure to sell. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether United land their primary target or turn to Salinas as a promising alternative.
