Barcelona has a new rival: Atletico Madrid enter race for 19-year-old defensive gem Jorge Salinas

Barcelona's pursuit of Jorge Salinas has become more complicated after Atletico Madrid emerged as serious contenders in the race for Racing Santander's 19-year-old defensive jewel. After his breakout campaign—in which he played a key role in Racing's successful promotion campaign—Salinas garnered strong interest from major Spanish clubs.

According to AS, Atletico Madrid is taking concrete action and is in talks with Racing Santander for a possible agreement. Salinas is handled by seasoned agent Jorge Mendes, who also actively handles communication between the sides.

On the Barcelona side, the operation still remains in the evaluation phase. Although the young defender has been strongly linked with the Catalan club in recent weeks, no terms have yet been agreed—not with the player and not with Racing. There has been initial contact through Mendes, but it's all about exploring possibilities and not finalizing the transfer yet.

Racing Santander is also firm in their appreciation of Salinas. Reports indicate that interested parties are being tipped for a release clause higher than the previously mentioned €16 million—a sum Barcelona are currently unwilling to commit.

While no deal is imminent, the race remains open going into the critical phase of the summer transfer window. Atletico Madrid were determined to take advantage of the situation and came in aggressively.

Unless Barcelona step up their act, Atletico could potentially put themselves in a strong position to secure the signature of one of the most promising young Spanish defenders of the moment.