Lamine Yamal has been touted as the next big thing set to emerge from Barcelona’s La Masia youth academy. At 15 years of age, the young forward has already generated a lot of excitement within the club and among the fans and could soon be making a big splash.
Given his age, Yamal should be playing for Barça’s Cadete A team, but is already a part of the Juvenil A setup and has featured in several matches in the UEFA Youth League this season.
Furthermore, the 15-year-old prospect has also participated in several training sessions with the senior team under Xavi, with reports even suggesting that the 42-year-old tactician intends to call him up for pre-season next summer.
Amidst this, there is an increasing worry at Barcelona over his future. Yamal is set to turn 16 in July this year at which point he will be able to sign his first professional contract. And several top clubs from across are ready with offers to snap up the youngster.
But, according to MARCA, Barcelona have already made initial contacts with Yamal and his camp over a new contract that will see him continue at the club.
The Catalans have expressed their desire to extend the contract of the 15-year-old youth prodigy. And the player is also keen on continuing the partnership.
The report claims that the two parties have agreed to meet in the coming days to lay the foundations for a new deal for the youngster. Barcelona do not expect any surprise move from the youngster or his entourage before hearing the club’s proposal.
Yamal wants to remain at Barça, who have a good relationship with his agent, Ivan de la Pena, who also represents first-team stars Gavi and Eric Garcia.
As was seen with Gavi last year, many clubs were keen on signing him but de la Pena waited for Barcelona’s offer as the player wanted to stay at Camp Nou. And he is expected to do the same with Yamal as well, although he will seek a good salary for the youngster.
But, as things stand, there seems to be optimism that Barcelona will be successful in renewing Yamal