The Spanish newspaper 'Sport' revealed that Barcelona is very close to completing the signing of the young Egyptian striker Hamza Abdel Karim, as he is expected to arrive in Barcelona on Thursday, with the agreement set to be officially announced in the coming hours if no unexpected developments arise.

According to the newspaper, Barcelona's management has finalized the last stages of the deal after lengthy and complex negotiations with the Egyptian club Al Ahly, which were affected by financial disagreements and administrative delays that previously cast doubt on the completion of the process.

The newspaper noted that Hamza Abdel Karim, who turned 18 on the first of January, is considered one of the most promising talents in African football, having caught Barcelona's attention after his impressive performance with the Egyptian national team in the Under-17 World Cup, where he scored two goals and assisted another in four matches.

The same source added that the player will extend his contract with Al Ahly for an additional season, ensuring the Egyptian club's rights in case Barcelona does not activate the purchase option, set at 3 million euros plus 5 million euros in variables.

The report also clarified that the most prominent remaining issue concerns the deal's impact on financial fair play rules, as it is expected to be counted within the wage bill despite being a loan.

According to the report, the signing of Hamza Abdel Karim is aimed at strengthening the attack line of Barcelona's reserve team, at a time when the team occupies the fifth position in the standings.