Barcelona push to renew Hamza Abdelkarim contract after breakthrough

Barcelona have opened talks with Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim over a new contract after the highly-rated striker impressed head coach Hansi Flick and earned a place in the club’s first-team squad this season.

The 18-year-old forward has made a strong impression since joining Barcelona, with his performances convincing the club that he has the potential to become an important part of its future.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has already spoken highly of Abdelkarim, describing him as a genuine striker with a very promising future and identifying him as a potential No. 9 for the Catalan giants in the years ahead.

The club’s belief in the Egyptian has now reportedly translated into efforts to improve his current contract.

Barcelona have already held two meetings with Abdelkarim’s representatives as negotiations over a new deal continue.

As per reports, the Spanish giants are keen to reach an agreement as soon as possible, with the club particularly interested in changing the value of the player’s release clause.

The Catalan giants want to protect one of their most promising young attacking talents by putting a stronger contractual agreement in place, especially as his profile continues to rise.

Abdelkarim enjoyed an impressive pre-season with Barcelona and used the opportunity to demonstrate his goalscoring ability and attacking qualities alongside the senior players.

While making an impact during pre-season is different from performing consistently in competitive first-team matches, Barcelona’s hierarchy have been encouraged by his development and believe he has the potential to establish himself at the highest level.

His progress has also caught the attention of Flick, who has handed the young Egyptian an opportunity to train and compete around the first-team environment.

Abdelkarim has already taken another significant step in his development by making his official Barcelona first-team debut.

The Egyptian came off the bench during Barcelona’s 5-2 La Liga victory over Rayo Vallecano, marking his first appearance for the senior side in a competitive fixture.

The breakthrough represents a major milestone for Abdelkarim, who is now being viewed increasingly as part of Barcelona’s long-term plans.

With the club eager to secure his future, negotiations with his representatives are expected to continue as Barcelona work towards finalising an improved contract for the promising Egyptian striker.

The move would underline the club’s confidence in Abdelkarim and its determination to protect a player who could potentially become Barcelona’s long-term No. 9.