Real Salt Lake signed leading striker Sergi Solans to a contract extension through the 2029-30 season on Monday, securing the 23-year-old Spaniard following a breakout rookie campaign. The deal, which includes an option for the 2030-31 season, follows a season in which Solans established himself as a primary offensive force for the club.
Securing a Key Offensive Asset
According to a club announcement on Monday, the extension ensures Solans remains in Utah for several more years. The striker has recorded 11 goals and four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions this season, as reported by MLSSoccer.com.
Real Salt Lake Chief Soccer Officer Kurt Schmid stated that rewarding Solans with the new contract was an easy decision. Schmid noted that the striker has proven his quality and commitment since his arrival, adding that Solans is a key part of the club's vision to secure trophies in Salt Lake both now and in the years ahead.
Collegiate Career and Draft History
Solans, a product of the Girona FC academy in Spain, first arrived in the United States as a collegiate player for Oregon State University. He was later selected by Real Salt Lake with the 30th pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft.
Following his time with the Beavers, Solans transferred to UCLA for his sophomore season. While playing for the Bruins, he helped the team win the 2025 Big Ten championship and was named the 2025 Big Ten Tournament Most Outstanding Player. His collegiate career concluded with him earning 2025 All-Big Ten First Team honors and 2025 United Soccer Coaches Second Team All-America honors.
Record-Breaking Rookie Production
The extension follows a high-scoring 2026 season for the forward. According to Real Salt Lake, Solans has already set a new club record for rookie scoring, surpassing the eight-goal total previously held by Corey Baird during his 2019 MLS Rookie of the Year season.
As reported by Real Salt Lake on August 24, 2026, Solans entered the Leagues Cup quarterfinal stage having notched 13 goals across all competitions, including nine in MLS, two in the Leagues Cup, and two in a friendly against Burnley. This performance has made him the 2026 RSL Golden Boot leader.
Solans on Life in Utah
Solans expressed gratitude regarding the new deal, noting the trust placed in him by the coaching staff. In a statement released by the club, Solans said, "I am also very thankful to the coaches for their trust and to the fans for their support from my first day in Utah."
The striker also commented on his experience living in Utah, describing the state as an amazing place to live and praising the kindness of the local people. Solans emphasized his commitment to continuous improvement, stating that his goal is to keep raising his level and proving himself every day.
Contract and Financial Details
The contract details for the 2026 season indicate a base salary of $88,025 for the forward, which also carries a matching cap hit of $88,025, according to Spotrac. The new agreement is a five-year contract that makes Solans a free agent in 2031.
Solans made his professional debut for the club on February 21, 2026, appearing off the bench in a match against Vancouver. This made him the 230th all-time player for Real Salt Lake.
Upcoming Tournament Matchup
Real Salt Lake enters the Leagues Cup quarterfinal on Tuesday night against Club León. The match is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on Apple TV.
As of the current standings, RSL sits eighth in the Western Conference with 28 points. The club enters the postseason matchup following a strong performance in the tournament's Phase One, where they recorded an MLS-best goal differential of +7, outscoring opponents 8-1.
Roster Context
The club's recent roster stability includes other Spanish-born players from the 2025 draft class, such as Jesus Barea, who also currently occupies a first-team roster spot for Real Salt Lake.
