Lamine Yamal celebrates the opening goal in Barca’s win over Espanyol at RCDE Stadium, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, on May 15, 2025. Photo by AP
Lamine Yamal, one of the current best players in the world, could soon become the highest-paid player at Barcelona, with a reported salary demand of €35-40 million (US$40-45 million) per year when he turns 18.
According to The Nationalthe 17-year-old forward’s contract negotiations are creating tension within the club. Despite his breakout performances and being widely regarded as the future of the club, Yamal’s financial demands have sparked internal debate.
Yamal currently earns approximately €3 million annually, but that is expected to change significantly when he turns 18 on July 13. On that date, he will be eligible to sign a five-year professional contract with Barcelona, and his salary is projected to reach the level of the club’s highest earners.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Yamal’s agent has asked the club to agree to a salary package of €35-40 million per year, which would make Yamal the highest-paid player at the club, overtaking the likes of veteran striker Robert Lewandowski.
The request has reportedly unsettled some senior players, who feel that awarding such a massive contract to a teenager could disrupt the balance within the squad.
Yamal has played a key role in Barcelona’s domestic treble this season, scoring 17 goals across all competitions. He is currently ranked just behind PSG’s Ousmane Dembele in Goal’s Ballon d’Or standings.
The teenager also proved his immense talent on the international stage, playing a pivotal role in helping Spain win Euro 2024.
