Barcelona planning new contract for 24-year-old star after rapid rise under Hansi Flick

Barcelona are preparing to reward Gerard Martin for his rapid rise under Hansi Flick, with the club planning improved financial terms and a longer contract for the versatile defender, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Martin’s current Barcelona contract runs until 2028 and contains a €100 million release clause, but the club wants to revise that agreement after the 24-year-old became an increasingly trusted member of Flick’s squad.

The move forms part of Barcelona’s focus on securing the futures of their younger players following a busy transfer window. 

On that note, Hamza Abdelkarim has already renewed his contract, but the club’s work on retaining trusted talents is continuing.

Martin is already aware of Barça’s intentions and the fact that the proposed changes would include a higher salary and an increased release clause, while Barcelona also want to extend the deal beyond its current 2028 expiry.

Flick has transformed Martin’s role

The most interesting aspect of Martin’s emergence has been his change of position.

Barcelona are planning a contract renewal for Gerard Martin. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images)

Naturally a left-back, the academy graduate has made significant progress since Flick began using him centrally. 

He has increasingly operated as a centre-back alongside Pau Cubarsi, giving Barcelona another option in an area where versatility is particularly valuable.

His development has also taken on greater importance following Ronald Araújo’s summer loan move to Liverpool. 

Barcelona’s decision to allow the Uruguayan to leave makes the faith Flick has placed in Martin even more telling.

Rather than simply filling a squad role, Martin is now competing for meaningful minutes in central defence.

Three starts underline his growing importance

Martin has featured in three of Barcelona’s five matches so far this season, completing the full 90 minutes in each appearance.

Hansi Flick has complete confidence in Gerard Martin. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)

For the moment, his main competition for the role is Andreas Christensen, leaving Martin with a genuine opportunity to establish himself as a regular option at centre-back.

That progress explains why Barcelona are looking beyond the existing €100m release clause and preparing improved terms.

From the club’s perspective, this is as much about recognising Martin’s development as protecting an asset that has grown in importance.

Flick has shown he is willing to trust the defender in a demanding new position, and Martin has responded by taking on more responsibility. 

A revised contract would formalise his improved standing within the squad while giving Barcelona greater protection against outside interest.