Barcelona has tied down their teenage sensation Lamine Yamal with a new long-term contract that runs until 2031, including a jaw-dropping €1 billion release clause and a host of performance-based incentives.
The deal includes remarkable clauses: a potential promotion to the iconic No. 10 shirt if Ansu Fati leaves the club, and a chance to become the highest-paid player at 18 if his performances continue to impress. Barcelona has clearly pulled out all the stops to secure Yamal’s future at Camp Nou.
The 17-year-old’s previous contract was set to expire in 2026, but given his breakout season, a new and improved deal was always on the horizon. Speculation had been swirling for days, and on Tuesday, Barça made it official.
Under the new agreement, Yamal will remain with the club until June 2031 — by then, he’ll be 23.
Yamal has been nothing short of sensational this season, scoring 18 goals and assisting 25 more. He played a key role in Barcelona’s triumphs in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, he helped forge a fearsome attacking trio that struck fear into opposing defenses all year. His dazzling talent and technical brilliance have made him one of the hottest prospects in world football — with many already viewing him as a future Ballon d’Or contender.
Naturally, Barcelona was determined to keep him.
The club announced the deal on its official website, sharing a celebratory video on social media with the caption: “Let’s dance until 2031.” However, they haven’t released any formal signing photos yet.
There’s a personal reason behind that. It’s believed that the official signing ceremony may take place on July 13, when Yamal turns 18. Reports also revealed that the player’s grandmother, who holds a special place in his heart, couldn’t attend the signing — and that Yamal wants her present for the formal photo session.
While the full contract details remain under wraps, several key aspects have surfaced in the media. The deal includes special bonuses if Yamal wins the Ballon d’Or, and other incentives tied to individual performances. If certain targets are met, he could become Barcelona’s highest-paid player — even at such a young age.
The No. 10 shirt, made famous by legends like Messi, could also be his if Ansu Fati departs. The €1 billion release clause — already reported earlier — reflects just how highly the club values their young star.
All in all, Yamal’s new contract is packed with exciting terms, and more details are likely to emerge in the coming days.
