Bundesliga setback opens Hoffenheim door for Barcelona

Barcelona’s summer search for a new striker has stalled, but a setback to Bundesliga forward Eli Junior Kroupi has unexpectedly opened a fresh avenue. With the Frenchman ruled out for three to four months, the Catalan giants now turn their attention to Hoffenheim’s Fisnik Asllani as a realistic No 9 option.

Kroupi’s injury was announced as keeping him out for most of 2026, effectively sidelining the Frenchman for three to four months. The setback removed one of Barcelona’s preferred backup options in the striker market.

The club’s dream target remains Julian Alvarez, the Atletico Madrid forward whose arrival has been Barcelona’s top priority. Negotiations with the Spanish side have lost momentum, causing the prospect of securing him to drift further away each day.

Barcelona briefly shifted focus to Bournemouth’s striker Eli Junior Kroupi, hoping the Frenchman could provide an immediate solution. The interest evaporated quickly, and the club withdrew its pursuit.

According to SPORT, Hoffenheim forward Fisnik Asllani has now climbed Barcelona’s shortlist as a strong alternative. The 23‑year‑old Kosovo international matches the demands Hansi Flick places on centre‑forwards, standing 1.92 metres tall with a blend of physical presence, mobility, aggressive pressing and aerial threat.

In the Bundesliga last season he recorded ten goals and seven assists, and he can finish comfortably with either foot. His blend of quality, potential and affordability has been praised by the sporting department.

Financially, his €29 million release clause sits within a range Barcelona believe they can manage, and there is optimism Hoffenheim could negotiate below that figure. RB Leipzig already hold an agreement in principle with the player, though Asllani has asked for patience to pursue a move to Barcelona.

If Barça fail to act in the coming weeks, Asllani may be forced to accept another offer, leaving the club without a clear striker solution. The situation highlights how Kroupi’s misfortune has reshaped Barcelona’s transfer landscape, while it remains to be seen whether sporting director Deco will make a concrete push for the Kosovo forward.