FC Barcelona would be very close to attracting one of the greatest emerging talents in African football: Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim. The Blaugrana club has been negotiating for around three weeks to bring in the young 17-year-old striker in January, a revelation at the last U17 World Cup in Qatar where he stood out for his efficiency and several MVP awards. Already coveted last summer by Bayern Munich, Abdelkarim remained at Al Ahly due to lack of agreement, but his performances in the selection have revived European interest. The Catalan management wishes to recruit him to strengthen Barça Atlètic lacking attackers.
According to journalist Achraf Ben Ayad and the Spanish daily Sportthe operation could take the form of a loan with a purchase option, even if a direct transfer remains possible. Despite Al Ahly’s reluctance, the player pushes to join Barcelona. In recent weeks, many clubs – Manchester City, Bayern, Lyon and even Milan – have tried to align, but Barça seems to be ahead in the matter. Already appearing with his club’s first team, Abdelkarim is renowned for his striking power and instinct in the box. Barça’s plan would be to let him adapt this season before integrating him into the professional group’s summer preparation.
