Barcelona is nearing an agreement for a contract extension with their promising young midfielder, Marc Bernal. According to sporting director Deco, the new deal for the 19-year-old is on the verge of being finalized. A key aspect of this agreement is the reported maintenance of his €500 million (approximately R$ 2.9 billion) release clause, as reported by "Mundo Deportivo".
This substantial clause underscores Barcelona's high regard for Bernal's potential and serves as a significant deterrent to other clubs. A product of La Masia, Bernal showed early promise, making his first-team debut at just 17 years old shortly after Hansi Flick took charge in August 2024. However, a serious knee injury sidelined him for an extended period.
After recovering, Bernal gradually regained his form and became a more prominent figure in the 2025/26 season, featuring in 33 matches for the Catalan club. During this period, he attracted attention, even earning comparisons to Sergio Busquets, and reportedly considered moving to gain more playing time.
Bernal has credited Flick with helping him stay at Barcelona, with the coach reportedly assuring him of more opportunities. The German manager's words of encouragement, "Relax, stay calm, keep working, and everything will be resolved little by little," seem to have played a crucial role.
The hefty release clause is designed to fend off interest from clubs like Atlético de Madrid, Aston Villa, and Manchester City, who were reportedly exploring moves for the young talent.
Despite not being an undisputed starter, Bernal is highly valued at Camp Nou. The arrival of Rodri (who moved to Barcelona from Manchester City and was named the best player of the 2026 World Cup) has impacted Bernal's playing time, with Rodri now occupying a central midfield role. Up to the recent FIFA international break, Bernal had played in eight matches, starting three of them.
"Mundo Deportivo" suggests that the substantial release clause is a strategic move to secure Bernal's long-term future at the club. Since his debut, Marc Bernal has accumulated 44 appearances for the first team, contributing five goals and three assists. The new contract is expected to extend until 2031, adding two years to his current deal.