Atlético de Madrid is monitoring Santino Báez, a 16-year-old defender playing in the youth divisions of Racing Club, according to reports from TyC Sports. The Spanish club has kept the young prospect on its radar as contacts have intensified following his recent international call-up.

Interest Deepens After National Team Selection

Born on May 19, 2010, in Rosario, Santa Fe, Báez currently plays for the Seventh Division of Racing Club and trains at the Predio Tita Mattiussi youth facility in Avellaneda. TyC Sports reported that preliminary contacts between representatives and the Spanish club have existed for some time, but those discussions advanced significantly after the defender earned a call-up to the Argentina youth national team.

Báez featured for the Albiceleste squad during the Miami Cup, making two appearances in tournaments where Argentina secured victories in both fixtures.

Early Development at Casa Tita

Báez arrived at Racing Club in 2022 at just 12 years old after successfully completing a series of trials with the institution. He currently resides at Casa Tita, the boarding facility located within the club’s training complex.

In previous remarks to the club’s official youth media, Reserva Académica, Báez outlined his ambitions in the sport. He stated that his primary career objectives are to become an idol at a major European club and to win a FIFA World Cup.

Versatility Across the Backline

Considered one of Racing’s youth promises, Báez is a defender who can play as both a central center-back and a right-back. The teenager operates comfortably as a central defender (zaguero central) or as a right-back (lateral por la derecha), traits that have caught the attention of international scouts tracking South American talent pools.

Next Steps in Avellaneda

As discussions and observations continue from European scouts, Báez remains tied to Racing Club’s youth system while continuing his development at Casa Tita.