Lamine Yamal is officially the most valuable 16-year-old in football history as transfer value confirmed

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is officially the most valuable 16-year-old in the history of football, according to the latest data.

Yamal is no stranger to breaking records after he became the youngest player to be called up to Barcelona's first team in 100 years at the age of 15 years and 283 days.

That was eclipsed days later when he became the club's youngest ever debutant during the Blaugrana's 4-0 win over Real Betis in April.

While the teenager also became Spain's youngest ever goalscorer, netting 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."

SPORTbible are on WhatsApp! We've launched a dedicated news channel to send you the latest news, features and plenty more directly on WhatsApp and all you need to do to sign up is click through to our one-way broadcast channel here for 'SPORTbible News' to appear in the 'Updates' tab on your WhatsApp.

Topics: Barcelona, Football, La Liga, Xavi, Spain

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno