Al-Nassr insists on Marc Bernal despite €500 million release clause
Saudi club Al-Nassr has reignited interest in Barcelona’s 18-year-old defensive midfielder, Marc Bernal, despite the staggering €500 million release clause protecting his contract.
Marc Bernal Remains a Hot Commodity
Bernal’s contract with Barcelona runs until June 2026, with an option to extend for three more seasons, making any deal extremely difficult. The young midfielder has already rejected a loan offer from the Catalan club, signaling his desire to continue developing in Spain, according to Mundo Deportivo.
European Clubs Also Circling
Al-Nassr is not alone in pursuing Bernal. European sides including Roma, Chelsea, Brighton, Valencia, Girona, Real Betis, and Everton are all monitoring the defensive prodigy, adding pressure on the Saudi club to compete financially and convince the player.
Market Timing Adds Pressure
Although the Saudi transfer window closed on September 10, clubs can still register players under 21 until September 23. For Al-Nassr, this creates a narrow window to overcome the release clause, secure Bernal’s commitment, and outmaneuver European rivals.
Barcelona Holds the Advantage
Barcelona continues to maintain control over Bernal, emphasizing its strategy to protect emerging talent. For the midfielder, the decision could shape the trajectory of his career—either remaining at Camp Nou to gain experience in one of Europe’s top leagues or taking on a lucrative, early challenge in Saudi Arabia.
