Two days out from a Premier League opener against newly promoted Hull City, Manchester United officials continue to support their summer plans with an alien patience.
As bizarre as it may seem to many frustrated supporters, the days of panic buys or paying over the odds for commercially-orientated continental names are well and truly gone at Old Trafford.
With Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans set to play a role from Saturday’s opening whistle, United now edge ever closer to a welcome agreement with Brighton for Carlos Baleba.
But on top of this, the club is pursuing an additional full-back to bolster the left side of defence, with conversations already occurring with Jorge Salinas’ representatives.
It’s no secret that Ineos have coveted Lewis Hall for some time, and, contrary to inaccurate reports, have contacted Newcastle on several occasions over the past three months.
However, a long-standing North Eastern desire to retain the 21-year-old has forced United to shift their attention elsewhere.
Short-term Premier League names like Antonee Robinson are being considered, as is RB Leipzig’s David Raum, given his £34 million release clause.
While both are viewed as good rotations in support of Luke Shaw, contractual structures for players aged 28 and 29 have opened the door to younger alternatives, with a view to returning for Hall next summer.
Therein lies the allure of a talented Spanish prospect who would not only cost less, but provide greater upside in terms of ceiling and capacity to grow within Michael Carrick’s new-look system.
Salinas has long attracted the attention of Michael Sansoni and his data-driven department, with Christopher Vivell and Jason Wilcox keen admirers.
At 19, the Racing Santander talent has already accumulated 38 appearances for Verdiblancos and played a starring role during a season that earned promotion and a Segunda Division crown.
Although yet to make a breakthrough on the senior international stage, the teenager has represented Spain up to the under-19 level, contributing three goals from nine appearances.
Such is the magnitude of his growth throughout a notable season of senior exploration; we’re advised that the Santander prospect has earned domestic attention in Madrid and Barcelona.
Represented by Jorge Mendes’ agency Gestifute, United feel that the defender meets the criteria for their new-look rebuild, with a focus on age, ability, potential and a mouthwatering £14 million release clause.
Still, he is one of several options being considered alongside David Raum, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Alejandro Balde. Interestingly, I’m advised that should United move for Balde, Barcelona would aim to replace him with Salinas.
Make of that what you will!
As was evident throughout his impressive La Liga debut against Villarreal, this is very much a modern Spanish full-back, confident in embracing either end of the transition.
He is aggressive in the tackle, tenacious in reclaiming possession, and unfazed when tasked on the grandest stage.
Technically, he mirrors so many of the great full-backs throughout the league, continuously looking to exploit space while marauding down the touchline.
There is never a guarantee of success when transitioning to the harsh demands of English football. Nonetheless, Salinas appears confident under pressure and physically capable despite his young age.
As has been the case with every candidate thus far, data has driven much of the club’s confidence in pursuing various players. And although nothing is assured at the time of writing, it’s easy to see why the Spaniard has earned admirers.
Should Ineos proceed with a deal, the United faithful may inherit an option that could thrive for a decade or more within a young squad with ambitions for perennial success.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels–photo by mrogowski_photography via depositphotos.com
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