Bayern Munich is reportedly near a contract renewal with 17-year-old sensation Lennart Karl. The club's top academy product is expected to pen a new deal in the upcoming days as the talks with his agent, former Bayern legend Michael Ballack, are progressing optimistically. Karl will be part of Bayern's project next season under Vincent Kompany, primarily deployed as a back-up option for star man Michael Olise.
In 30 games in the youth setting last season, Lennart Karl scored an absurd 34 goals alongside 11 assists. He naturally plays as a left-footed right-winger who loves to cut inside and use his dribbling to break down the defense.
The 17-year-old is also capable of playing behind the striker thanks to his great vision and an eye for the goal. Standing at merely 5'5, he has great balance and quick feet, much like how Lionel Messi uses his physique to his advantage. However, he is rather skinny, but that can be changed swiftly since he hasn't turned 18.
Lennart Karl was given the golden opportunity to show his quality in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer after being subbed on at the half against Auckland City FC. Despite not having his name on the scoresheet, he surely impressed with his link-up plays, composure, and decision-making, and had a couple of highlights to his name. Karl has a phenomenal footballing IQ and maturity on the pitch, considering his age.
Lennart Karl is close to signing a contract extension beyond 2026 at FC Bayern. Talks are nearing completion [@Abendzeitung] pic.twitter.com/npJCqGvUmD
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) August 6, 2025
Lennart Karl shining for Bayern in pre-season
In the recent exhibition match against Olympique Lyon at the Allianz Arena, the little magician Lennart Karl was selected for the starting XI by Vincent Kompany. He was the brightest spot in the attacking during the first half, terrorizing the right-hand side with his sudden change of tempo and line-breaking passes. He put himself in an ideal position to score, but his volley missed the goal by inches.
There are still a few aspects to improve in Karl's game. That being said, what he already has in his arsenal should make him more than capable of being an established member of the first team.
This contract extension reflects positively on the club's image. Not only did Bayern Munich retain a future key player for the first team, but it also shows the management is increasing attention to the academy and nourishing talents instead of letting them go to waste, as in the past few seasons. Bayern fans are hopeful to see other talents like Filipe Chavez, Wisdom Mike, and Cassiano Kiala take the next step, just as Lennart Karl is doing.