Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has officially become the most valuable 16-year-old in the history of football, according to the latest data.
Yamal has a history of breaking records, having been the youngest player to be called up to Barcelona’s first team in a century at the age of 15 years and 283 days.
He then surpassed that milestone by becoming the youngest debutant in the club’s history during Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Real Betis in April.
Furthermore, the teenager made history as Spain’s youngest-ever goalscorer, scoring his first international goal for the senior side against Georgia last month.
To add to his collection of records, Yamal can also say he is the most valuable 16-year-old in history.
That’s according to Transfermarkt, who claim the winger is worth an incredible €50 million already.
It is no surprise Yamal’s stock is on the rise when considering his eyebrow-raising performances of late, drawing comparisons with seven time ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi.
Barcelona reportedly have plans to offer the Spaniard a bumper five-year deal when he turns 18 in 2025, with manager Xavi said to be ‘in love’ with the player.
Speaking in September, the 43-year-old admitted he was ‘surprised’ by Yamal’s rise to prominence, but confirmed had ‘big expectations’ for him.
“Of course I am surprised by what he does at his age, he’s only just 16,” he said.
“Everyone is – I am not an exception. He nearly always makes the best decision, which is what makes the difference in football.”
Xavi added: “We have big expectations, even more so when you see what you see [on the pitch]. He is not starting games on a whim. He starts because we feel he can effect matches.
“Like I said, he nearly always makes the right decision, which is important, picking the best option. Two assists today, he’s intelligent, mature. He’s extraordinary.”