Bayern secure top talent Lennart Karl with long-term deal | OneFootball

Lennart Karl is currently the rising star at FC Bayern – and the Munich club has apparently long since taken steps to keep the exceptional talent for the long term. According to kicker, the existing contract of the 17-year-old will automatically extend next year – including a significant upgrade.

The young player is currently the talk of the town on Säbener Straße. With his dream goal against Club Brugge in the Champions League and the subsequent Bundesliga goal in Gladbach, Karl has thrust himself into the spotlight within a few days. The offensive player is increasingly following in the footsteps of Jamal Musiala – and apparently for a long time.

Automatic Contract Extension on 18th Birthday

Behind the scenes, the German record champion has already secured the future of the super talent. According to kicker, Karl's existing training contract includes an automatic contract extension that will take effect on February 22, 2026, his 18th birthday. On this day, his youth contract will automatically be converted into a long-term professional contract.

Photo: IMAGO

The change in contract status was already agreed upon during the last extension in the summer of 2025. At that time, Karl extended his contract until 2028 – a three-year contract, which due to his age could not be longer. With the activation of the clause, the term is now expected to extend for several years.

As kicker further reports, the contract extension is not just a formality but also financially significant. The young left-footer, represented by former national player Michael Ballack, is set to receive a substantial salary increase after the conversion of his contract.

Bayern Sees Karl as the Next Musiala

Internally, Karl is regarded as one of the greatest talents at the campus since Jamal Musiala. His technical brilliance, shooting power, and game intelligence have catapulted him from the U19 directly into the Bundesliga team within a few months.

Coach Vincent Kompany praises his “courage and instinct,” while sports director Max Eberl describes the 17-year-old's development as “exceptionally fast and professional.” The contract automation is therefore more than just a legal step – it is a clear signal that FC Bayern is deliberately building its new generation.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.