Man Utd Jorge Salinas transfer plans gather pace as Arsenal weigh a move for Tottenham defender Cristian Romero

Manchester United have identified Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas as an alternative transfer target after encountering difficulties in their pursuit of Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall, while Arsenal are exploring a move for Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero.

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United are keen to strengthen the left side of their defence before the summer transfer window closes, with Hall initially viewed as the club’s preferred option.

However, Newcastle are reluctant to part with the 21-year-old England international, prompting United to assess other targets.

According to Sport, the Premier League club have now turned their attention to 19-year-old Salinas, who has impressed with Racing Santander and is regarded as one of Spain’s promising young defenders.

United are not alone in the race for the teenager. Barcelona are also monitoring Salinas, setting up a potential transfer battle between the two European giants if negotiations advance in the coming weeks.

Salinas is valued for his pace, technical ability and attacking instincts from left-back, qualities that have attracted growing interest from clubs across Europe.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have been linked with a surprise move for Argentina international Cristian Romero as manager Mikel Arteta looks to reinforce his defensive options ahead of the new campaign.

According to The Athletic, the Gunners admire the World Cup-winning defender, although completing a deal is expected to prove extremely difficult given the fierce rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham.

Spurs are believed to be open to selling Romero during the current transfer window, but club officials are understood to favour a move abroad rather than strengthening one of their direct Premier League rivals.

The 28-year-old has also attracted interest from Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid, with both clubs monitoring his situation as they seek defensive reinforcements.

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With only weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, Manchester United and Arsenal continue to reshape their squads, although both clubs may face significant competition before securing their preferred defensive targets.