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Juan Soto is reportedly nearing an unparalleled contract in sports history, with sources indicating that he is set to sign a 15-year deal valued at $765 million (£600 million) with Major League Baseball's New York Mets. Although the Mets have yet to officially announce the agreement, the medical checkup for the 26-year-old Dominican outfielder remains the final hurdle. The MLB reports that this monumental contract would include a $75 million signing bonus, without any deferred payments, and could ultimately be worth up to $800 million (£627 million).

This groundbreaking deal eclipses the $700 million (£558 million) contract signed by Shohei Ohtani with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year, which included substantial deferred payments. In American sports, deferred payment contracts are not uncommon, where players accept future payments after their playing period ends. Soto's potential new contract is regarded as the most substantial in professional sports' total value.

In the realm of professional sports, other significant contracts have been made, including Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott's four-year extension allegedly worth $240 million (£183 million) and Patrick Mahomes' 10-year extension with the Kansas City Chiefs valued at $450 million. Additionally, Jayson Tatum's recent five-year deal with the Boston Celtics is estimated at $314 million (£245 million). Meanwhile, notable football contracts such as Cristiano Ronaldo's with Al-Nassr and Lionel Messi's with Inter Miami also enter the conversation, showcasing the growing financial landscape across sports.

Soto, previously a free agent, had completed a season with the New York Yankees, leading them to the 2024 World Series, which they lost to the LA Dodgers. While the Yankees reportedly made a strong counteroffer of $760 million (£595 million) over 16 years, the Mets ultimately secured Soto's services. Over the last season, Soto maintained a batting average of .288 in 157 regular-season games, recording a personal best of 41 home runs and 109 RBIs, in addition to contributing with a .313 batting average in the World Series.

Previously, Soto played for the Washington Nationals and the San Diego Padres, showcasing his prowess in 936 regular-season games overall, during which he hit 201 home runs, achieved 592 RBIs, and maintained a batting average of .285.