Barcelona close to securing Hamza Abdelkarim transfer from Al Ahly to reinforce the attack of B team | OneFootball

Although FC Barcelona are not expected to bring in any first-team signings during the upcoming winter transfer window, the club appears focused on reinforcing their reserve team.

Recent reports suggest that the Catalans are close to signing the promising Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim from Al Ahly. According to Mundo Deportivo, the deal is expected to be completed in January, once Abdelkarim turns 18.

The 17-year-old striker, who impressed at the U-17 World Cup last November by scoring against Haiti and Venezuela, is a physically strong left-footed forward known as a classic reference striker. Scouts describe him as having a good shot, although he will need to improve his ability to link up play outside the box.

Barça Atlètic coach Juliano Belletti is set to welcome Abdelkarim, as the team currently lacks natural center-forwards. Òscar Gistau and Víctor Barberá are sidelined with injuries, while Óscar Ureña and Shane Kluivert have been covering the position.

Abdelkarim’s arrival would provide Belletti with an additional attacking option and help maintain the team’s competitiveness during this period. His signing also reflects Barcelona’s continued focus on scouting young talents globally to strengthen their reserve and youth squads.

Last July, Barcelona hosted a delegation from Al Ahly, including the club’s president, Mahmoud El Khatib, and Mohamed Kamel, highlighting the strong ties between the clubs that likely facilitated this transfer.