Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim is on the verge of joining Barcelona, with only final details remaining before the deal is completed in the current winter transfer window.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the move is set to be an initial loan from Egyptian giants Al Ahly, including an option to buy.
Sources cited by the Spanish outlet explained that the agreement is not yet 100% finalized, but intensive talks have taken place in recent hours between Barcelona and Al Ahly to speed up the arrival of the promising striker. Administrative steps are now the main hurdle, as Abdelkarim still needs a work permit in Spain and a visa to travel to Barcelona. These procedures could delay the official announcement slightly, with the deal expected to be confirmed before the end of the month.
Within Barcelona, officials are also closely monitoring the situation of Senegalese player Mamadou Mbacke, who is tipped to join MLS side St. Louis City. His departure would free up one of the highest salaries in the reserve-team squad and open a valuable spot on the roster for Abdelkarim. Initially, Barcelona considered registering the Egyptian talent with their youth side, but if Mbacke leaves as expected, that step will no longer be necessary.
The move is seen as a major opportunity for Abdelkarim to showcase his potential in Spain and take an important step in his European career.
For Barcelona, bringing in a young, motivated forward from Al Ahly fits their long-term strategy of developing emerging talents who can one day push for a place in the first team.
