Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona renewal takes unexpected turn as deal becomes more complex than expected | OneFootball

Barcelona are working behind the scenes to secure Lamine Yamal’s long-term future, but the process is far from straightforward.

According to the latest update from Juan Jimenez in AS, while there is optimism that the young winger will extend his contract, the negotiations are more complex than they seem.

For months, it has been widely reported that Yamal has an agreement with Barcelona to sign a new deal once he turns 18. His agent, Jorge Mendes, recently reassured that the player remains committed to the club.

But the problems

Barcelona initially extended Yamal’s contract until 2026 in the summer of 2023. At that time, due to FIFA regulations, the club could only offer him a three-year deal as he was just 16 years old.

However, an informal agreement was in place for a further extension to be signed once he reached 18, ensuring his stay at the club until 2030. But since then, the landscape has changed significantly.

Yamal’s performances at Euro 2024 cemented his status as one of the most exciting young talents in world football and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, he is already one of the biggest names in the sport.

Barcelona are cautious

Barcelona want to renew Lamine Yamal’s contract. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Given his rapid progression, Barcelona are approaching contract talks with extreme caution.

The discussions are being conducted with absolute secrecy, as they involve not just a contract renewal but also a major financial decision that could impact the club’s wage structure for years to come.

The Catalan giants are aware that Yamal is destined to become their highest-paid player, and his new salary will set a benchmark for the entire squad.

Mendes understands Yamal’s growing value, both on the pitch and commercially. His influence goes beyond his performances, as he significantly boosts the Barcelona brand.

The agent is negotiating with Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, to strike a balance between Yamal’s rightful demands and the club’s financial sustainability.

Barcelona will do everything

Barcelona are determined to secure Yamal’s future without creating a wage imbalance similar to the one they had with Lionel Messi in previous years.

While they acknowledge the need to increase his salary, they do not want to set a precedent that could disrupt their long-term financial stability.

The situation is delicate, and while there is confidence that Yamal will stay at Barcelona, the final agreement must satisfy both the player’s camp and the club’s financial vision.