Barcelona move for teenage striker still expected to go ahead despite hurdles – report | OneFootball

Hamza Abdelkarim has been one of the most frequently mentioned names in Barcelona’s winter transfer plans.

The 18-year-old Egyptian forward, currently with Al Ahly, is of interest primarily to strengthen Barça Atletic, following the large number of injuries in the attacking line of Juliano Belletti’s side.

A move seemed close earlier this month. But the recent lack of information surrounding the African striker, combined with the fact that he continued to play matches for his current club, seemed to indicate that the move might not happen.

Reports suggested that Hamza’s close circle opposed renewing his contract at Al Ahly before he moved to Barça, in a loan deal with a buy option.

Move still on

However, as per Egyptian journalist Sayed Nabawy, and further corroborated by SPORT, Hamza Abdelkarim’s loan move to Barça Atletic is still expected to go ahead.

The agreement between the two clubs remains in place and is only waiting for the completion of several administrative procedures, such as his work permit and visa.

In addition, the situation regarding his contract extension has now been resolved.

Hamza Abdelkarim still expected to move to Barcelona. (Picture credit: Instagram/@hamzabdelkarim)

The striker will renew for an additional season with Al Ahly so that, should Barcelona ultimately decide not to activate the purchase option, valued at €1.5 million plus a further €5 million in add-ons, his current club will not lose control over him.

What still needs to be resolved is the issue of Financial Fair Play at Barça Atletic. Although this is a loan without a mandatory purchase clause, the targets required to trigger the option are relatively easy to achieve, meaning it would likely count towards the wage bill.

As a result, the imminent departures of Mamadou Mbacke and Andres Cuenca could be the factor that enables Abdelkarim’s arrival by creating the necessary margin.

Once the renewal with Al Ahly is signed and the agreement between the three parties involved is finalised, the 18-year-old will travel to Barcelona and start training under Juliano Belletti.

However, with several formalities still pending, the deal is expected to be completed in the final week of the winter transfer window.