Real Madrid Locks Down Rising Sensation with Record-Breaking €1 Billion Release Clause

Real Madrid have officially announced that promising forward Gonzalo García has penned a fresh long-term deal with the Spanish giants.

The 21-year-old featured in several cameo roles during Carlo Ancelotti's tenure last season, but it was his performances under Xabi Alonso at the Club World Cup where Gonzalo truly proved his worth as a viable option for the first team.

With Kylian Mbappé sidelined due to illness and Endrick nursing an injury at the tournament's outset, Alonso placed his trust in Gonzalo as Madrid's lead striker and witnessed the young talent net four strikes across six matches during the summer competition.

The decision was quickly made to retain Gonzalo for the 2025–26 season as backup to Mbappé, and Madrid have now solidified his position as a senior squad member by offering him an enhanced new deal.

Gonzalo has committed his future until 2030 through a substantial agreement which, as reported by AS, features a buyout clause worth €1 billion ($1.3 billion).

Madrid's confidence in Gonzalo led many to expect the youngster would inherit the No.9 jersey left available after Mbappé's move to number 10, however, the club surprisingly announced that fellow prospect Endrick would take on that shirt number.

Gonzalo has been allocated No.16 for the coming season, during which he is anticipated to feature prominently after persuading Alonso to halt his pursuit of additional striking reinforcements.

The incoming Madrid manager had sought someone similar to former Bernabéu darling Joselu—a physically imposing striker willing to serve as Mbappé's deputy—but Gonzalo's breakthrough during the Club World Cup persuaded Los Blancos to conclude their transfer hunt.