What happens when a promising young striker combines natural finishing ability with the movement of Erling Haaland? Barcelona fans may soon find out.

Barcelona's young Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim is catching the eye in pre-season, with reports suggesting his displays have drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s most clinical number 9s.

The striker, signed from Egyptian club Al Ahly, has scored in impressive fashion, including a brace on his debut and three goals in friendly matches. His ability to get into the box and finish from close range has already given his supporters plenty to cheer about.

According to Barça Universal, Barcelona’s coaches have shown Abdelkarim clips of Erling Haaland, Viktor Gyökeres and Samuel Eto’o to help him improve his positioning and movement as a traditional centre-forward.

Haaland’s clever runs, Gyökeres’ physicality and Eto’o’s nose for goal inside the box provide three very different models for the young Egyptian to learn from. His aim is clear: improve his positioning, timing and consistency in creating scoring chances.

There is also increasing anticipation over the possibility of Abdelkarim teaming up with Lamine Yamal, whose inventiveness could enhance the striker’s finishing.

Of course, comparisons to established stars come with huge expectations. Abdelkarim has a long way to go, and pre-season performances are just the start.

But if he can turn those lessons into consistent performances Barcelona might have an exciting young number 9 on their hands worth keeping an eye on.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)