Barcelona Secure Future Star with Massive Buyout Clause

Barcelona has secured midfielder Marc Bernal's future by setting a 500 million euro buyout clause and extending his contract until 2026. Despite a recent ACL injury, the club remains confident in his potential, highlighting his impressive performances this season. Bernal has the option to extend for three more years.

Barcelona has officially set midfielder Marc Bernal's release clause at 500 million euros ($557 million) and extended his contract until June 2026, the LaLiga club announced Monday. When Bernal turns 20 in 2026, he will have the option to extend his contract for an additional three years.

Bernal sustained a serious ACL injury during Barcelona's 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano last month, leaving the field in the final minutes. As a product of Barcelona's fabled youth academy, he caught the eye this season with three league appearances, including his debut in the opening match against Valencia.

'Marc Bernal was, until his unfortunate injury, the huge sensation at the start of the season,' said Barcelona in a statement. 'After he joined manager Hansi Flick for the pre-season, the German coach was convinced that he was ready to move up to the next level. The club believes in his potential and future, underscored by today's new deal.' ($1 = 0.8976 euros)