Barcelona have failed with an opening bid for Egypt’s highly rated teenager Hamza Abdelkarim, after Al Ahly rejected a loan-to-buy proposal for the 17-year-old striker.
According to On Sport, the Spanish champions had hoped to secure Abdelkarim through an initial loan deal that included a permanent option, valued at around €4m. Al Ahly, however, have made it clear they will only consider an outright sale for one of Egypt’s brightest young prospects.
The Cairo-based club are reportedly holding out for €8m, reflecting both Abdelkarim’s potential and his growing reputation within African football. Al Ahly see the teenage forward as a long-term asset and are unwilling to compromise on their valuation.
Barcelona are understood to have returned with an improved offer, but sources suggest the latest bid still falls short of Al Ahly’s demands. Talks are ongoing, though a significant gap remains between the two clubs.
Abdelkarim has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in Egypt, earning praise for his composure, movement and eye for goal at a remarkably early age. His rapid rise has attracted attention from Europe, with Barcelona keen to add him to their stable of young prospects.
For now, Al Ahly remain in control of negotiations, determined to protect their player’s value while balancing interest from one of world football’s biggest clubs. Whether Barcelona are willing to meet the Egyptian champions’ asking price could determine whether Abdelkarim’s next step takes him from Cairo to Catalonia.
