Barcelona advances in renewal talks with Marc Bernal amid transfer speculation
Barcelona has decided to move forward with renewing Marc Bernal’s contract, betting on the 18-year-old midfielder’s potential to secure a spot in the first team under Hansi Flick. According to Sport, sporting director Deco is already leading negotiations with the player’s agents to reach an agreement.
Contract until 2026, but renewal on the way
Bernal’s current deal runs until June 2026. After progressing through Barcelona’s academy since the U-15s, the Spaniard saw his development interrupted by a serious knee injury that kept him sidelined for almost a year. Even so, the club sees him as a talent capable of following the same path as Lamine Yamal, gaining prominence in the senior squad.
Roma showed interest but deal collapsed
In July, Sky Sports reported that AS Roma had opened talks to sign the midfielder. Barcelona initially studied the idea of loaning him, but the deal never progressed. Now, instead of letting him leave, the Catalan giants plan to include a high release clause in his new contract to fend off interest from European rivals. Bernal is currently valued at €5 million by Transfermarkt.
Renewals remain a priority at Barça
The club has been accelerating its renewal policy. This week, Jules Koundé extended his deal until June 2030, while Frenkie de Jong is also expected to sign an extension until 2028, with an option to automatically renew until 2029.
With Flick’s focus on homegrown players, Marc Bernal is seen as the next jewel to be secured for Barcelona’s long-term project.
