The potential signing of Julián Álvarez by Barcelona currently looks unlikely, forcing the Catalan club to consider cheaper and less high-profile alternatives. According to Sport, Barça’s technical department has noted the name of Eli Junior Kroupi, a 20-year-old French striker who plays for Bournemouth in the Premier League.
His 13 goals in the league have put him on the radar as a possible reinforcement for a top club. Of Ivorian descent, Kroupi represents France at the U21 level and could soon break into the senior national team setup as a backup to players like Mbappé, Dembélé, or Doué.
“Reports on the potential of this player, born to an Ivorian father and a Portuguese mother, are very positive,” Sport states, adding that Barcelona have closely followed him since his earlier spell at Lorient. According to Transfermarkt, he is already valued at €70 million—still a significant fee, but far lower than what Atlético Madrid would demand to sell Julián Álvarez.
Some reports suggest Bournemouth are aiming to receive even more than that this summer for a player who has also been linked with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. What is clear is that he is a high-potential forward who could help fill Barcelona’s attacking needs following Robert Lewandowski’s departure, ongoing doubts over Ferran Torres, and the complications surrounding a move for Julián Álvarez.
