Hamza Abdelkarim expected to remain at Barcelona despite Como rumours

Barcelona have no plans to let Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim leave during the January transfer window, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano and the player’s father.

Abdelkarim, 18, had been linked with a loan move to Como in search of more regular first-team football. However, Romano said there had been no negotiations between the clubs.

“People close to Hamza Abdelkarim have denied that there are negotiations with Como,” Romano wrote on X.

He added: “Those close to Hamza Abdelkarim have confirmed that there is no intention for him to leave Barcelona during the January transfer window.”

Abdelkarim’s father, Mohamed Abdelkarim, also rejected reports that his son could move to the Italian club, managed by former Barcelona player Cesc Fabregas.

“What is being said about Hamza Abdelkarim leaving Barcelona is not true, and the rumours linking him with a move to Italian club Como are fabricated,” he told Eram News.

Barcelona recently extended the young forward’s contract until the summer of 2030 and want him to continue his development within the club, despite his limited involvement with the senior side.

The current plan is for Abdelkarim to train with Hansi Flick’s first team while gaining match experience with Barcelona’s reserve or youth teams when required, including in the UEFA Youth League. Flick could also give him opportunities when he opts to rest some of his regular starters.

Reports say Barcelona are satisfied with the player’s progress and want him to become fully accustomed to the club’s footballing philosophy and culture. A decision on whether he should go out on loan or be given a larger role in the first team is expected to be made next summer.

Abdelkarim has made two appearances in La Liga this season, both from the substitutes’ bench, playing a total of 12 minutes. His lack of regular first-team football led to speculation about a temporary move, with Como among the clubs reportedly interested.

Como have developed a reputation for providing opportunities to promising young players, including Nico Paz and Jacopo Ramon, under Fabregas.

The Italian side are fifth in the Serie A table with 23 points after 11 rounds. They have also made a strong start in Europe, sitting fourth in the UEFA Champions League standings with nine points from three wins and one defeat.

For now, the statements from Romano and Abdelkarim’s father indicate that the Egypt international is expected to remain at Barcelona at least until the summer.