Barcelona fear repeat of Dro exit as they move to tie down Egypt’s Hamza Abdelkarim

Barcelona have stepped up efforts to secure the long-term future of Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim after opening talks with his representatives over a new contract.

The Catalan club are reportedly keen to improve the teenager’s current terms and significantly increase his release clause amid growing confidence in his potential.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Barcelona officials met the player’s agent, Christian Emile, at the club’s training complex two days ago to discuss a new agreement.

The report says negotiations have progressed positively as Barcelona seek to protect one of the most promising African talents in their ranks.

Barcelona target major release clause increase

Abdelkarim currently has a €15m release clause in his contract, a figure Barcelona reportedly believe does not reflect the Egyptian player’s potential or rapid development.

The Spanish champions are now seeking to raise the clause to €150m as part of the proposed new agreement.

Barcelona’s urgency has been driven by Abdelkarim’s strong performances since joining the club from Egyptian giants Al-Ahly.

The forward cost Barcelona €1.5m and made an immediate impression, finishing the summer pre-season as the team’s leading scorer with four goals.

His performances have strengthened the club’s belief that he could develop into an important player in the years ahead.

Lessons from recent departure

Barcelona are reportedly determined to avoid losing Abdelkarim for the value of his current release clause as interest in the young Egyptian’s development continues to grow.

The club’s approach has also been influenced by its recent experience with Pedro Fernandez Sarmiento, known as Dro.

The player joined Paris Saint-Germain in January after the French champions activated his €6m release clause, a departure Barcelona reportedly viewed as a “betrayal”.

That experience has increased the club’s determination to move quickly and secure Abdelkarim on improved terms.

Growing African influence at Europe’s elite clubs

For Egyptian and African football followers, Barcelona’s efforts to retain Abdelkarim underline the growing reputation of young African talent within Europe’s biggest academies and clubs.

Having arrived from Al-Ahly for a relatively modest fee, the Egyptian forward has quickly established himself as a player Barcelona’s hierarchy consider worth protecting.

The proposed €150m release clause would represent a significant statement of confidence in Abdelkarim’s future as he continues his development at one of world football’s biggest clubs.