Premier clubs chase Barcelona Bernal despite €500m clause

According to SPORT, 19‑year‑old midfielder Marc Bernal has signed a new contract with FC Barcelona that runs until 2029 and carries a €500 million release clause. Despite the hefty clause, Premier League clubs Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea are intensifying their pursuit of the La Masia graduate.

Bernal says the Catalan side feels like home and thanks Hansi Flick and the coaching staff for believing in him after a lengthy injury recovery. The midfielder emphasised that Barcelona is his home and he wants to remain at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Earlier today, reports confirmed that Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea are monitoring the youngster, with Atlético Madrid also listed as a tracker. The interest comes as the Premier League heavyweights look to bolster their midfield options.

Barcelona expect Frenkie de Jong clearance within a week

Manchester City, currently overhauling their midfield, have made an enquiry for Bernal while targeting two elite young midfielders with physical presence and technical quality. City’s preferred targets include Ayyoub Bouaddi of Lille and Aleksandar Pavlovic of Bayern Munich, although any deal appears extremely unlikely.

Barcelona have made clear they have no intention of selling Bernal, who has expressed no desire to leave, especially after Frenkie de Jong’s prolonged injury. The club views him as an untouchable asset alongside Pedri, Joan Garcia and Lamine Yamal.

Bernal’s new deal includes low wages despite his rising prominence, and talks are expected to accelerate on improved terms. The €500 million release clause gives Barcelona full control over his future.

With the Premier interest spiking, Bernal’s priority remains to continue at Barcelona and secure a contract that reflects his growing importance in the senior squad. The situation highlights the broader market trend of top clubs chasing young talent with massive release clauses.