Barcelona begin negotiations with forward’s agent amid plans to convert him into a number nine

Barcelona begin negotiations with forward’s agent amid plans to convert him into a number nine Barcelona’s ongoing struggles in signing a new forward, including top target Julian Alvarez, has put young Hamza Abdelkarim in an interesting position. The Egyptian is entering the new season with the possibility of becoming a potential option for Barcelona in the number nine position despite having yet to make his breakthrough in the first-team. It has been reported recently how Barcelona coaching staff is training him to be an ultimate number nine for the club, especially after Ferran Torres’ exit. Barcelona in talks with Hamza Can Hamza become a first-team option this season? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) Now, Fabrizio Romano has offered a crucial bit of update as far as Barcelona and Hamza Abdelkarim is concerned. The Italian transfer expert claims the club see the Egyptian as a highly talented youngster and have already begun negotiations, holding a direct meeting to reach an agreement on a new long-term contract. According to Romano, the matter has not been finalised yet, but Barcelona see great potential in Hamza and would rather hand him a new deal now than run into complications down the line. The concern is that his current salary does not match his potential, something the club are keen to address before it becomes an issue. Romano adds that Barcelona are very pleased with Hamza, and the feeling is mutual, with the player equally happy at the club. Why it matters Hamza has shown quite the promise. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) With Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres both having departed, and the pursuit of Alvarez proving increasingly difficult, Barcelona are short on recognised centre-forward options. That has thrust Hamza into the spotlight, with the coaching staff working hard to mould him into a genuine number nine. Tying him down to a new, improved contract would not only reward his progress but also protect the club’s investment in a player they clearly rate highly. Should Barcelona fail to land a marquee striker before the window closes, Hamza could yet find himself with a real opportunity to make his mark. For now, the young Egyptian appears very much part of Barcelona’s plans, and securing his long-term future looks set to be the next step.