Barcelona tie teenage midfielder Marc Bernal down to new contract with massive release clause in wake of ACL injury recovery

Barcelona confirmed on Monday that Bernal has signed a contract extension until June 2029, with a staggering €500m (£420m/$545m) release clause included. The deal was signed in the presence of president Joan Laporta, vice president Rafael Yuste, and sporting director Deco. Despite missing over a year through injury, Bernal remains one of the most highly-rated La Masia graduates.

The club’s official statement read: "FC Barcelona and the player Marc Bernal have reached an agreement for the extension of the player's contract until June 2029. The signing took place on Monday morning at the Club Offices with the Barça president Joan Laporta, first vice president Rafael Yuste and director of the Football Area, Deco, all present."

The Catalan giants see Bernal as part of their long-term midfield rebuild under Hansi Flick. Alongside fellow academy products like Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Gavi and Pau Cubarsi, the midfielder represents the next wave of homegrown stars being tied down to fend off interest from top European clubs. His €500m clause mirrors Barca’s approach of safeguarding talent while nurturing them into first-team roles.

The Spaniard suffered a devastating ACL injury in August 2024, sidelining him for over a year. He returned earlier this month in a La Liga clash against Valencia, coming off the bench and even grabbing an assist in a 6-0 win. Barcelona were quick to reassure him of their faith, offering an improved deal while he was still in recovery, a gesture underlining the club’s confidence in his potential.

For now, Barca will carefully manage Bernal’s minutes as he regains fitness, but his long-term role under Flick is expected to grow. The 18-year-old is tipped to become a key part of Barcelona’s midfield rotation, with the club hopeful he can emulate the rise of Yamal and Cubarsi. If he avoids further setbacks, Bernal could be central to both Barca’s future and Spain’s national setup.