2 hours ago 2

Official: Real Madrid teenage prodigy signs new contract until 2029

Real Madrid teenage prodigy Joan Martinez has signed a new contract with the club, the player has confirmed via a post on his social media account.

“I continue to expand the bond with the best club in the world. The support I’ve received from the club and the fans lately is something I’ll carry with me always,” wrote Martinez on Instagram, alongside a picture of him signing his contract.

“Thanks to my friends, my family and all around me for making it possible. Hala Madrid!”

Martinez, 18, is one of the most highly-rated young prospects at La Fabrica and was on the verge of a first-team breakthrough last season before an ACL injury put him out for almost a year.

Having made his comeback over the summer, the youngster is currently a part of Alvaro Arbeloa’s Castilla setup while first-team boss Xabi Alonso continues to monitor his progress.

Contract until 2029 with a high release clause

Martinez’s previous contract with Real Madrid stood to expire in 2026 and the club have acted to extend it by three more years until 2029, reports AS.

As part of the new contract, the Spaniard’s release clause has been increased to €150 million, showing the faith that the Merengues have in the young defender.

Since returning from his ordeal, Martinez has shown no lingering effects from the injury. Solid alongside Lamini Fati, strong in the air and confident on the ball, his form for Castilla has impressed those at the club. “He’s perfect,” say voices inside Valdebebas.

Real Madrid’s plan for Martinez is clear: his promotion to the senior squad is pencilled in for next season, though it could happen sooner.

With Antonio Rudiger out for close to three months and Dean Huijsen suspended following his red card against Real Sociedad (pending appeal), the 18-year-old could be called upon earlier than expected.