Manchester United make serious move for Barcelona target with 16 million release clauseAccording to SPORT, Manchester United have emerged as serious contenders to sign Jorge Salinas, adding fresh competition to FC Barcelonas pursuit of the highly rated left-back.Although Deco remains primarily focused on strengthening the attack following the departure of Robert Lewandowski and the possible exit of Ferran Torres to PSG, reinforcing the left side of defence is still one of the clubs priorities before the transfer window closes.While Joao Cancelos move from Al Hilal is close to completion, negotiations for Salinas have stalled in recent weeks due to Barcelonas reluctance to pay his 16 million release clause.That delay has opened the door for Manchester United to join a race that already included both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.Man United see Salinas as Plan BManchester Uniteds first choice to strengthen the left-back position remains Lewis Hall of Newcastle United.Jorge Salinas enter race for Salinas. (Picture credit: Instagram/@jorgesaliiinas)However, Newcastle are reluctant to strengthen what they view as a direct Premier League rival, particularly after losing several key players this summer, including Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, and with Bruno Guimaraes expected to join Arsenal.As a result, Manchester United have turned their attention to Salinas. The 19-year-old impressed club scouts during the UEFA Under-19 European Championship in Wales this July, where Spain lifted the title.Manchester Uniteds recruitment team were impressed by the young defenders performances and believe he is ready to compete for first-team minutes immediately.Carrick gives his approvalAccording to the report, manager Michael Carrick has already approved Salinas as the clubs alternative if the pursuit of Lewis Hall falls through.Unlike Barcelona, Manchester United are prepared to activate the defenders 16 million release clause without negotiation.Barcelona still hold an advantageSalinas wants to join Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)Barcelonas financial proposal is considerably lower. The Catalans are offering up to 8 million, structured as 6 million guaranteed plus 2 million in performance-related bonuses, while also exploring the possibility of including a player on loan to reduce the overall cost.Despite Manchester United Uniteds stronger financial position, Barcelona remain optimistic because of one crucial factor.According to the report, Salinas priority is to join Barcelona, with the young full-back keen to wear the Blaugrana shirt next season.That preference could prove decisive as the battle for one of Spains brightest defensive prospects intensifies.