Barcelona's big bet: Lamine Yamal's contract tops what Messi, Ronaldo earned as teens; details here

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal recently signed a record-breaking contract extension until 2031, potentially becoming the club's highest-paid player by age 18.

Lamine Yamal in action against Inter Milan

Image Credit: Getty

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal recently signed a contract extension that will officially come into force on July 13, the day he turns 18. The new agreement binds him to the Catalan club until 2031, making it one of the lengthiest and most lucrative deals ever handed to a teenager in football history.

A Record-Breaking Deal for a Teen

While Yamal is still 17, the terms of his new contract reflect the club’s belief in his generational talent. The deal reportedly includes a 10 million euros net fixed salary, a 25 million-euro signing bonus (to be paid across six years), and multiple performance-based incentives.

If all conditions are met — including a Ballon d'Or bonus — Yamal could earn up to 20 million euros net annually, potentially surpassing what global icons like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo earned at a similar age.

On Par With Barcelona’s Top Earners

With this contract, Yamal’s earnings place him alongside Barcelona’s current highest-paid stars — Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

• Lewandowski, despite accepting a pay cut, will earn 26 million euros gross next season.
• Frenkie de Jong is set to receive 22 million euros gross, plus 5.2 million-euro in bonuses.

While both initially earn more in fixed wages, Yamal’s signing bonus and incentive structure could see him surpass both in total earnings.

Contract Review Scheduled in 2027 

Despite the long-term nature of the contract, a review clause has been embedded into the agreement. Yamal’s salary and bonus structure will be re-evaluated in two years, based on his performances and milestones reached by 2027. A likely increase is expected if his trajectory continues.

Financial Fair Play Implications 

Yamal’s mega-deal does come with significant LaLiga Fair Play ramifications. Barcelona is currently operating under tight financial conditions and hopes to regain the 1:1 spending rule once VIP boxes at Spotify Camp Nou are approved.

The size of Yamal’s deal may restrict the club’s ability to bring in reinforcements in the summer transfer window.

Sporting director Deco, working in tandem with new manager Hansi Flick, has prioritized player renewals over new signings to maintain squad cohesion. Yamal’s deal is part of a broader strategy that has also seen the renewals of Pau Cubarsi, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, Marc Casado, and Gavi.

Frenkie de Jong remains the only key player yet to renew, with negotiations ongoing.

A Clear Statement of Intent 

Yamal’s renewal is not just a financial statement — it's a declaration of faith in the club’s youth project. Barcelona appears committed to building its future around homegrown stars, even amid financial strain. The teenager now carries the dual burden of expectation and opportunity — and should he continue on his current path, he may very well redefine what it means to be a footballing prodigy.