YOUTH
Barcelona to sign Hamza Abdelkarim permanently on Monday
FC Barcelona are set to complete the permanent signing of 18‑year‑old Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim on Monday, after exercising their purchase option with Al‑Ahly and awaiting final bureaucratic steps before the June 30 deadline. The deal, reported by Mundo Deportivo, includes a €1.5 million fee plus variables and follows his loan spell with Barcelona’s Juvenil A side.
Abdelkarim spent the 2023‑24 season on loan with Barcelona’s Juvenil A team, impressing enough to earn a place in Egypt’s World Cup squad under coach Hossam Hassan. His inclusion came after a series of strong performances at youth level.
According to Al‑Ahly’s official social‑media statement, Barcelona activated the purchase option last week, setting the transfer fee at €1.5 million plus variables. The Egyptian club confirmed the agreement and is now exchanging documentation with Barcelona to finalise the transfer.
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All remaining formalities are slated to be completed before the June 30 deadline, with both clubs exchanging the necessary paperwork. The final approval is expected on Monday, completing Abdelkarim’s move to Barcelona. Al‑Kom Al‑Ahmar, Abdelkarim’s former Egyptian side, is reportedly claiming a portion of the fee from Al‑Ahly under a rights agreement. The dispute remains between the Egyptian parties and does not affect Barcelona’s acquisition. The permanent deal follows Barcelona’s earlier summer acquisition of Anthony Gordon, which attracted considerable attention. Gordon’s arrival marked the club’s first major signing of the transfer window. Abdelkarim, regarded as a low‑risk, high‑potential talent, will join Barcelona’s senior setup after his World Cup duties conclude. His progress will be monitored as he transitions from youth to senior football.