FC Barcelona have been exploring the possibility of signing Eli Junior Kroupi in recent days as a leading alternative to Julian Alvarez, whose proposed move remains at a standstill.
While the Catalan club have not yet abandoned their pursuit of the Atletico Madrid striker, they believe the AFC Bournemouth forward fits the profile Hansi Flick wants to strengthen his attacking options.
Now, according to L’Equipe (h/t SPORT), Barcelona have already submitted two offers for the 20-year-old French striker in recent days, both worth less than €100 million.
This comes in direct contradiction to reports from earlier in the week which claimed that the Catalans had pulled out of the race for the forward.
However, both of Barcelona’s bids were rejected by Bournemouth, who are determined to keep the player for at least one more season.
Barcelona rate Kroupi highly
Kroupi is highly regarded by Barcelona’s sporting department, although there is also recognition that any deal would involve a significant degree of risk given both the player’s age and the overall financial commitment required.
Despite those concerns, the striker is keen to leave the Premier League and move to Spotify Camp Nou.
His willingness to join Barcelona could help facilitate an agreement should the club ultimately decide to make him their priority target.
Barcelona believe Bournemouth’s position is negotiable
As per the report, Barcelona view the situation surrounding Kroupi differently. Although Bournemouth have publicly insisted that the player is not for sale, the Catalan club do not believe the door is completely closed.
Their understanding is that the issue is primarily one of valuation rather than an outright refusal to negotiate.
Club officials are confident that a deal could eventually be agreed but are unwilling to exceed what they consider to be a fair market value for a player with enormous potential who is still developing.
Barcelona waiting for final outcome with Alvarez
For now, Barcelona are not expected to intensify their pursuit of Kroupi until the situation surrounding Alvarez is resolved.
The club believe they have done everything possible in their attempt to sign the Argentine, and any breakthrough now depends on the pressure applied by the player himself and the willingness of Atletico Madrid to enter negotiations.
The transfer remains open, but Barcelona are not prepared to wait indefinitely.
As the market enters its decisive phase, the La Liga champions know that firm decisions will soon have to be made in order to complete their squad for the new season.
