Barcelona plan contract upgrades for La Masia duo to reflect new pecking order | OneFootball

According to a recent report from Mundo Deportivo, it has come to light that Barcelona are preparing to improve the contracts of Gerard Martin and Marc Bernal to better reflect their growing importance in the first team. 

Both players signed extensions in 2025, but their rapid development this season has prompted the club to reassess their current terms.

As such, Flick has increasingly relied on both players, and their roles have evolved beyond what their existing contracts were originally designed to represent.

Extensions last year

Gerard Martin’s situation is particularly notable. Back in January 2025, Barcelona secured his future with a contract extension until 2028. 

At the time, the deal included a €100 million release clause, a figure that, while significant, is relatively modest compared to the clauses of more established first-team players.

However, the defender’s status within the squad has changed considerably since then. Initially seen as a backup option, he has grown into a regular starter and a dependable presence. 

Then there’s Marc Bernal

Bernal is making a strong case for himself. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Bernal’s trajectory has been just as impressive, if not more remarkable, given the circumstances. 

The young midfielder signed a contract extension in September 2025, committing his future to the club until 2029. 

This came shortly after a serious injury, highlighting the faith Barcelona placed in his potential.

At the time, his deal included a massive €500 million release clause. His contract was also financially improved as part of that renewal. 

However, with Bernal now becoming a regular figure under Flick, Barcelona believe another adjustment is justified.

This is because the La Masia midfielder has stepped in well in the absence of Frenkie de Jong and has even raised the debate about whether he should be benched when the Dutchman returns.