Man United targets David Raum and Jorge Salinas

Manchester United are widening their search for a new left-back, with RB Leipzig captain David Raum and teenage prospect Jorge Salinas among the names being considered.

The position remains a priority for United, particularly with uncertainty surrounding their pursuit of Newcastle’s Lewis Hall. Recent reporting suggests the club are now assessing alternatives rather than putting all their focus on one target.

Raum remains an experienced option

Raum is understood to be on United’s shortlist and has emerged as one of the more established options under consideration.

The Germany international has already attracted interest from United in the past, with reports claiming there were concrete discussions between the two clubs last summer, including around the potential financial terms.

His situation is now particularly interesting because Raum is entering the final year of his Leipzig contract. He has previously acknowledged interest from elsewhere while leaving the door open to a future move.

Reports currently place his release clause at roughly £34 million, although United are believed to feel a deal around £30m or potentially less could be achievable.

For United, Raum would provide something different from the younger players they are considering: experience, attacking quality and immediate competition for the position.

Salinas represents the long-term play

United are also looking at Jorge Salinas, the 19-year-old Racing Santander defender who has attracted significant attention across Europe.

Salinas is regarded as one of the most exciting young defensive talents in Spain and can operate at left-back as well as centrally. Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Newcastle and several European clubs have previously shown interest.

His reported release clause is €16 million, although there has been conflicting reporting over the exact figure and how the clause changes depending on his registration and contract situation. Racing have publicly maintained the €16m figure.

That makes Salinas a completely different proposition from Raum.

One is an established international entering his prime. The other is a teenager United could develop over several years.

Raum and Salinas are two names to watch as United’s left-back search enters a decisive stage.