Last summer, Barcelona had to face a painful reality. Neymar bought his freedom for the amount stated in his release clause and was therefore free to sign for PSG in what has become the most expensive signing in the history of football.
Six months later, everything seems to be forgotten with the La Liga leaders posting impressive performances in all competitions and with new signings patching over the sadness associated with the 25-year-old's goodbye.
During the process, the team have learned a valuable lesson. Since the departure of the Brazilian, all new contracts or renewals have maintained a constant: the inclusion of a prohibitive release clause for its players.
The last two signings are no exception and if Yerry Mina, with far less mileage in the world of football, has a termination clause of €100m, that of Philippe Coutinho's goes up to €400m and the same number would be included in Ousmane Dembele's.
For contract extensions or renewals, something similar has happened. Lionel Messi also agreed the inclusion of a €400m release clause and now it would be necessary for Samuel Umtiti and Sergi Roberto, who agreed to contracts under the previous standards, to include a buy-out fee far exaggerating their worth.
It is reported that Barca will address these 'exceptions' to the new rule in the coming weeks.