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Young forward Hamza Abdelkarim has penned a new deal at Barcelona, featuring a release clause valued at $115 million (€100 million).
The 18-year-old first arrived at Barça in February on a loan arrangement. His transfer from Egyptian side Al Ahly was made permanent during the summer for a fee of $1.7 million (€1.5 million).
Despite his permanent move being finalized just weeks ago, Abdelkarim has already been handed a fresh contract, complete with an improved salary and a substantial fixed release clause.
The attacker turned heads during preseason by netting four goals, and has since made his senior debut as a substitute in the 5–2 victory against Rayo Vallecano at the close of August.
Abdelkarim Unbothered by Haaland Comparisons
While a young attacking talent emerging from Egypt might naturally draw comparisons to Mohamed Salah, Abdelkarim has instead earned the nickname 'Haaland of the Nile' — and he's fully embracing it.
"When someone asks me which players I admire and learn from, I think [Erling] Haaland is a tremendous striker," Abdelkarim told reporters following the signing of his new Barcelona contract.
"He has so many qualities. Every time I watch him, I find something I can take from his game and use to elevate my own.
"We all know how exceptional he is at finding the net. He's always in the right position. That's something you can study. I can see why you'd call me the Haaland of the Nile."
How Good Is Barça's Latest Wonderkid?
The new contract and its sizeable buyout clause represent a tremendous vote of confidence from Barcelona in Abdelkarim, with expectations running high for the young striker.
Abdelkarim, who is the first Egyptian to ever represent Barcelona, is already knocking on the door of Hansi Flick's first team despite only turning 18 earlier this year. He is also rapidly establishing himself as a key figure for his national side, featuring in four of Egypt's five World Cup games this summer and is widely regarded as one of North African football's most thrilling prospects.
Standing over 6' tall, Abdelkarim is a physically commanding and clinical finisher, showcasing his potential to Barça supporters with four goals across five preseason appearances. Earlier this summer, SPORT reported that Barcelona view Abdelkarim as a player capable of skipping the B team altogether, with plans to integrate him further into Flick's senior setup this season as an alternative attacking option.
Following Robert Lewandowski's exit, Barcelona's squad is without a traditional No.9 — a role Abdelkarim could be called upon to fill, given his old-fashioned striker qualities, including strong hold-up play and a poacher's eye for goal.
"Playing time is the coach's call, and I respect that," he told reporters at his contract signing. "I work every day to get better. I need time to develop and contribute to the team. I know my opportunities will come, and I have to be prepared when they do."