Barcelona president Lamine Yamal has revealed that the club are closing in on a new contract for young star Lamine Yamal.
Yamal’s contract is expected to run out in 2026 after breaking into the team in 2023.
He has been a key player for the club with his stunning performances this season, leading the club to a domestic treble.
The Spanish international has been touted as one of the favourites to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or award.
According to reports, Barcelona are planning to tie him down to a long-term contract when he turns 18 in July.
Laporta has opened up on the club’s plans for their prized asset, who is a graduate of their famed La Masia academy.
He said: “There is always some suffering involved. It’s been discussed, but it’s not signed. Lamine’s a great player, an extraordinary person and is already very mature.
“There are good feelings with his representatives and with his family. His agent, [Jorge] Mendes, advises him well.
“It will end well. He’s grown up here, he’s Catalan and he’s a Barça fan. He’s happy in Barcelona and is destined to be the best player in the world.”
Yamal has scored four goals in his last six appearances for Barcelona.
Laporta has revealed that Yamal will get the salary that his standing in the team deserves while also providing an update on his change of number.
He said: “It’s not done, but it’s been worked on,” he added on the financial side of the deal. “The [salary] has to be in line with his performances, not his age.
“[The club] have to give him special treatment. We have to unite the club’s interests with Lamine’s. Let’s hope there’s understanding on both sides.
“[Sporting director] Deco will decide that, it’s an internal issue. What I like about Lamine is that he has so much individual talent, but he’s also involved in how we play as a team. He’s a modern player that knows how to defend.
“We will resolve all the renewals and then we will look at signings. To be competitive, you have to sign players. We’re looking at improving in every position.”
Yamal has scored 18 goals and recorded 25 assists in 54 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona this season.
Barcelona enjoyed a successful season winning the LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa in Hansi Flick’s first year at the club.
