Barcelona revive Kroupi chase as Alvarez deal stalls

Barcelona have re‑activated their pursuit of Eli Junior Kroupi, the 20‑year‑old French Premier League striker who arrived at Bournemouth from Lorient for €13 million, after their primary target Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid this summer proved difficult to acquire, amid negotiations.

Barcelona’s search for a new number nine has hit obstacle after obstacle this summer, with top target Julian Alvarez proving increasingly difficult to prise away from Atletico Madrid. That frustration has forced sporting director Deco to explore alternatives, and one familiar name has now returned to the agenda.

Indeed, Barcelona have reactivated their interest in Eli Junior Kroupi as they look to solve their striker conundrum. According to Diario SPORT, the club has put Kroupi’s name back on the table despite Bournemouth having previously declared the young Frenchman non‑transferable.

Deco has reopened the possibility of signing the France Under‑21 international as a candidate to replace Robert Lewandowski. The 20‑year‑old has enjoyed a superb debut campaign in the Premier League since joining from Lorient for €13 million, scoring 13 goals in 35 matches.

Those numbers have attracted interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Chelsea, PSG, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Manchester City all reported to be monitoring the forward alongside Barcelona.

Kroupi, a Frenchman with Portuguese roots, fits precisely the profile Deco favours, and the sporting director remains keen despite the difficulties involved.

However, Bournemouth’s firm resistance complicates any move. Football operations chief Tiago Pinto views Kroupi as the cornerstone of the club’s project and has made clear he will not sell this summer, reportedly not even for €100 million.

The Cherries are enjoying an exciting period, preparing for their European debut after a sixth‑placed finish under manager Andoni Iraola, and are in no rush to part with one of their brightest assets.

Agent Moussa Sissoko recently denied any negotiations with Barcelona, adding another layer to the stalled talks.

Even so, Barcelona are keen to test whether that stance is truly final, and with Alvarez looking a long shot and Flick eager for another striker, the club will continue to probe for openings, and Kroupi remains a key option.