Barcelona is preparing for the 2026 summer transfer window with a clear plan to bolster their defensive options. Under coach Hansi Flick, the club intends to add at least one center-back and one full-back. However, the approach this summer focuses on cost-effective signings, emphasizing young talent with manageable contract clauses.
A top target for the central defense is 19-year-old Jorge Salinas from Racing Santander. Known for his versatility, Salinas is capable of playing as a left-sided center-back as well as a left-back, fitting Barcelona’s profile perfectly. Crucially, his release clause currently stands at €8 million, but with Racing’s promotion to La Liga, it will jump to €16 million after June 30. This creates a narrow window for Barcelona to secure him at the lower fee.
Other clubs interested in Salinas include Paris Saint-Germain, Newcastle United, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Bologna. Yet, Barcelona is widely considered to be leading the race to sign the player. Securing Salinas would mark the club’s second signing following Anthony Gordon, addressing defensive needs economically while maintaining squad balance.
Meanwhile, Barcelona is also looking at adjustments within their attacking prospects, especially concerning youth. Seventeen-year-old winger Toni Fernandez, who trained with the first team last season, is likely to go out on loan to gain regular playing time at a higher level than Barca Atlètic’s current fourth-tier competitions. Alaves, having narrowly avoided relegation from La Liga, is among the clubs prepared to offer Fernandez valuable top-flight experience. The final decision on Fernandez’s future rests with Flick after evaluating him during pre-season.
These planned moves demonstrate Barcelona’s pragmatic and forward-looking transfer policy. By prioritizing affordable defensive reinforcements and fostering young talents, the club aims to sustain competitiveness while gradually refreshing its squad.
