Lennart Karl Signs Professional Bayern Munich Contract Until 2029
MUNICH, 23 February 2026 — FC Bayern Munich have officially secured the long-term future of their most promising teenage sensation. Lennart Karl, who celebrated his 18th birthday yesterday, has signed his first professional contract with the German record champions. The deal, confirmed by club sources and industry insiders this morning, ties the attacking midfielder to the Allianz Arena until June 2029, effectively ending speculation regarding a move to the Premier League.
The Birthday Breakthrough
The timing of the announcement was no coincidence. Under FIFA regulations, players under the age of 18 are limited in the duration of the contracts they can sign. By waiting until Sunday, 22 February 2026, to formalise the agreement, Bayern Munich were able to transition Karl from a youth arrangement to a full five-year professional deal.
Reports suggest that while a preliminary agreement until 2028 had been in place for several months, the new contract includes a significant wage increase and a commitment that keeps him in Munich for the next three seasons. This move comes as a blow to Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City, all of whom had been reportedly “keeping tabs” on the youngster’s development over the last year.
Player Profile: The “Phenom” of Frammersbach
Lennart Karl has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the Bayern campus since joining from the youth ranks in July 2022. Standing at 1.68 metres, the left-footed playmaker has drawn frequent comparisons to former club legends due to his low centre of gravity and exceptional close control.
Technical Style and Stats
Karl is primarily deployed as an attacking midfielder but is equally comfortable drifting to the right wing to cut inside on his stronger left foot. His 2025/2026 campaign has been defined by high-impact performances:
- Goals: 7 goals in senior competitions this season.
- Assists: 3 assists, showcasing his vision in the final third.
- Record Breaker: On 22 October 2025, Karl became Germany’s youngest-ever goalscorer in the UEFA Champions League.
Market Valuation
According to recent data, Karl’s market value has skyrocketed to approximately €60 million. This valuation places him in elite company; on his 18th birthday, he ranks joint-fourth for the most valuable players at that age in football history, alongside names like Endrick, Warren Zaïre-Emery, and Gavi.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lennart Karl |
| Date of Birth | 22 February 2008 |
| Place of Birth | Frammersbach, Germany |
| Height | 1.68 m |
| Preferred Foot | Left |
| Current Club | FC Bayern Munich |
| Contract Expiry | June 2029 |
International Ambitions: World Cup 2026
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching this summer, Karl has publicly expressed his hope that his domestic form will earn him a spot in the German national team. Having already made a significant impact at the youth international level—netting 11 goals in 17 youth caps—the step up to Julian Nagelsmann’s senior squad appears increasingly likely if his current trajectory continues.
Bayern Sporting Director Christoph Freund has previously tipped Karl for a “breakout season,” a prediction that has been vindicated by the player’s integration into the first-team training sessions and his consistent matchday contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is Lennart Karl’s new contract?
Lennart Karl signed a professional contract on 22 February 2026, which runs until June 2029.
What position does Lennart Karl play?
He is primarily an attacking midfielder (number 10) but also plays as a right midfielder or winger.
Which foot is Lennart Karl’s strongest?
Karl is a left-footed player, known for his ability to cut inside from the right flank.
What is Lennart Karl’s market value?
As of February 2026, his transfer value is estimated at approximately €60 million, making him one of the most valuable teenagers in world football.
Has Lennart Karl played for the German national team?
While he has been a prolific scorer for Germany’s youth teams (11 goals in 17 appearances), he is currently pushing for his first senior call-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup.