This season, Barcelona and Real Madrid have behaved somewhat similarly in that they have supported their young talents, Marc Bernal and Joan Martinez.

Barcelona is eager to extend Bernal’s contract, but Real Madrid has also given defensive maestro Martinez a lot of support in spite of his injuries during the preseason.

In fact, the Spanish champions were putting even more faith in the young defender by negotiating a new contract with his agency.

Real Madrid and Martinez agree to extend their contract.

The Athletic now claims that Real Madrid is close to finalising Joan Martinez’s contract renewal.

According to the report, the young player’s new contract at Santiago Bernabeu has been agreed upon in principle by the reigning European champions.

A new contract is about to begin. (Image courtesy of Getty Images/Ricardo Nascimento for DFB)

Martinez, who is widely seen as one of Spain’s most gifted defensive prodigies, has a 2026 contract that will expire.

Although the renewal is expected to give him three more seasons left on his contract, Real Madrid is keen to ensure his long-term future at the team.

To stave off possible suitors, the club is reportedly believed to include a significant €50 million release clause in his deal.

Martinez’s confidence may be greatly increased by the new arrangement as he attempts to heal quickly following a successful surgery. Although it could take some time, the player’s confidence may rise knowing the team still has complete faith in him.

The young Spanish player is not anticipated to return until March 2025, though that is not the official date on which he will do so.