Barcelona's Pursuit of Egyptian Striker Sensation Crumbles in Shocking Turn of Events—Report
Just days earlier, it appeared certain that 18-year-old forward Hamza Abdelkarim would sign with Barcelona in this transfer period, however recent developments indicate that Al Ahly SC's requirements have brought negotiations to a complete halt.
In early 2026, AS reported that Barcelona and Al Ahly had reached full agreement on a loan arrangement that would make Abdelkarim the first Egyptian footballer to represent Barcelona.
The same sources also mentioned that Abdelkarim might travel to Barcelona for required medical evaluations this week, but the absence of any official confirmation started raising concerns.
Subsequently, Abdelkarim made his 2026 appearance for Al Ahly on Saturday, January 10, entering as a substitute and featuring in the final 20 minutes of his team's 4–1 Egyptian Cup victory.
His participation in the fixture sparked additional speculation, but all evidence points to one crucial factor explaining why Abdelkarim's transfer to Barcelona remains incomplete.
Al Ahly Prevents Abdelkarim's Barcelona Transfer
Al Ahly will permit Abdelkarim to move to Barcelona on loan this winter, but only under the condition that the player extends his contract with the Egyptian club before leaving. Currently, Abdelkarim and his father, who serves as his representative, have declined the prospect of renewing his Al Ahly contract, causing the Barcelona transfer to stall entirely, according to SPORT.
Barcelona's proposal involves a temporary agreement for the remainder of this season, including a buy clause that could be activated during the summer. Al Ahly's concern is that Barcelona might not exercise this option, leaving Abdelkarim to return after six months with just one year left on his existing contract, which expires in 2027.
Barcelona's plan was for Abdelkarim to join Barça Atlètic, with a €5 million ($5.8 million) payment due to Al Ahly once he completes five appearances for the reserve team.
The buy option is reportedly valued at €1.5 million ($1.7 million) with Al Ahly retaining 15% of any future transfer, according to Mundo Deportivo. Furthermore, Al Ahly would allegedly receive an additional €5 million if certain performance-related targets are met.
However, despite Barcelona reaching agreements with both Al Ahly and Abdelkarim, the contract extension dispute in Egypt has nearly derailed the transfer.
Further discussions are anticipated in the upcoming days, but current expectations suggest Al Ahly will maintain their position, potentially undermining Barcelona's opportunity to secure the promising young striker.