Transfer market specialist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Lamine Yamal signed his first professional contract with Barcelona back in July when he turned 16, and the official announcement and the ceremony have been scheduled for Monday, October 2.
Yamal, who is already considered a part of the first team fold despite being just 16 years of age, agreed to sign a new deal with Barcelona just before the team left for their pre-season tour to the USA.
Adding to the information, the journalist reports that the deal Yamal signed with the Blaugrana is valid until 2026.
Long-term plans in the pipeline
While it is stated that the 16-year-old has only signed a three-year deal, running until 2026, we have reported before that his agent, Jorge Mendes, is already working on a long-term tenure.
Mendes, along with Barcelona, are actively strategizing to ensure Yamal’s continued presence at the club at least until 2030. It must be noted that this ambitious plan to extend his contract over a seven-year period will unfold in two distinct phases.
Initially, the youngster will commit to a fresh three-year contract, extending his tenure until 2026, in accordance with regulations that limit the duration of contracts for underage players.
Then in 2025, when he turns 18, Barcelona and Mendes will finalize a five-year contract extension lasting until 2030.
These strategic manoeuvres are taken into account to ensure the longevity of his contract. This way, Barcelona will not have to dwell into deeper contract talks.
One for the future
It’s no secret that Barcelona see Yamal as the one for the future. For that, they will incorporate a massive release clause worth €1 billion to ensure no other club gets near his acquisition.
On the sporting front, the coaching staff will make sure Yamal gets enough rest in between the gruelling fixture congestion in order for him to avoid excessive fatigue, something that happened with Ansu Fati and Pedri.
The talented youngsters have been the victims of overuse in the past and the coaching staff, led by Xavi, will want to avoid the mishap with Yamal.