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Eintracht Frankfurt tie teenage record-breaker Niko Iličević to long-term deal

·By Paul Lindisfarne
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Eintracht Frankfurt tie teenage record-breaker Niko Iličević to long-term deal

Eintracht/X.com

Eintracht Frankfurt have secured the long-term future of teenage prospect Niko Iličević, whose agreement is set to run until 2031 once he turns 18.

The 16-year-old midfielder is currently tied to the Bundesliga club through a development contract that runs until 2029. According to reports, that agreement will automatically convert into a professional contract extending to 2031 when he reaches his 18th birthday.

The arrangement is a significant step for Eintracht Frankfurt, who have moved to secure the future of one of the most highly regarded young players in their academy.

Iličević made his Bundesliga debut on Sunday, coming off the bench during the 3-1 home victory over Hamburg. At 16 years and one day old, he became the joint-youngest player in the competition’s history, matching the record set by Youssoufa Moukoko in 2020.

His appearance has brought further attention to a player who had already attracted interest from other major clubs. Bayern Munich had previously been among those monitoring his development, but reports indicate that Iličević is not currently planning a move away from Frankfurt.

The teenager has also impressed at youth level, recording four goals and three assists in seven appearances for Frankfurt’s Under-19 side this season. He has featured for Germany’s Under-17 team and scored the winning goal in a 3-2 friendly victory over England in October.

The long-term agreement is designed to give Frankfurt security over his future without an immediate prospect of a transfer. Reports also state that the deal contains no release clause.

Iličević’s record-equalling Bundesliga debut has accelerated the attention surrounding him, but Frankfurt have moved to ensure that his next steps can continue to take place at the club.