Deco negotiates a reinforcement for Barça from the VIP box at El Sardinero: today he takes an exam

FC Barcelona and Racing de Santander are playing an attractive clash tonight corresponding to the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey.The setting couldn't be more suggestive, with El Sardinero as the backdrop and with two teams that lead, respectively, the First and Second Divisions of Spanish soccer. The match, as expected, is proving to be thrilling, intense, and with phases of alternating dominance.

Hansi Flick has opted for a starting eleven with quite a few rotations, thinking about the demanding accumulation of matches. Less regular footballers are having the opportunity to stake their claim in a demanding setting. One of the standout names is Bernal, who has started and is leaving very good impressions in the first half.

Racing, meanwhile, has also fielded a somewhat more alternative starting eleven. José Alberto has decided to ration efforts with the long league calendar in mind. However, he has surprised everyone by leaving his young prospect, Jorge Salinas, on the bench.

The left back, who is only 18 years old, is proving to be one of the great revelations of the season in the Second Division. His growth has been meteoric, standing out for his physical power, his ability to join the attack, and his remarkable defensive personality. It is no coincidence that several First Division clubs have already asked about his situation.

Deco sets his sights on Jorge Salinas

Among them, FC Barcelona. So much so that Deco has traveled to Santander to closely follow his performance from the stands at El Sardinero. The blaugrana sporting director has had the name of Jorge Salinas highlighted in red for months.

Barça has been looking for a young full back for some time to strengthen the left flank. The idea is to bring in a footballer with potential, who is capable of growing in the medium term and competing for a place. Jorge Salinas fits perfectly into that profile that they like so much in the Catalan capital.

Although for now he has started the match on the bench, his possible introduction in the second half is generating great anticipation. Deco wants to see him in a context of maximum demand, against an opponent that punishes every mistake. These types of settings are the ones that really serve to assess a young talent.

In Barça's offices they are already talking about a possible low-cost deal. Racing is aware of the interest and knows that keeping their gem will be complicated if he keeps growing at this rate. The Copa del Rey may be a decisive showcase for Jorge Salinas.