Barcelona could return to the pursuit of Eli Junior Kroupi in the summer of 2027 after identifying the Bournemouth striker as a potential long-term option for their attack, claims a report from SPORT.
The Catalan club considered the Frenchman last summer as an alternative to Julian Alvarez, but Bournemouth’s valuation and the forward’s injury complicated their plans.
Kroupi, 20, is now moving closer to a return after suffering a metatarsal fracture in July.
He has resumed on-pitch training following several months of rehabilitation, giving him an opportunity to rebuild his fitness and regain the form that attracted Barcelona’s attention.
A future move remains uncertain, however, and Barcelona’s interest will depend on their attacking needs and Kroupi’s performances after returning from injury.
Barcelona transfer plans: Why Eli Junior Kroupi attracted interest
Barcelona’s sporting management considered Kroupi while exploring options to strengthen the number nine position last summer.
Barcelona could revive their interest in Eli Junior Kroupi. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
Alvarez was the priority target, but Atletico Madrid’s reluctance made pursuing the Argentine an entirely different challenge.
Kroupi emerged as an alternative after an impressive first Premier League season, and his performances convinced the English club that he was a valuable part of their attacking project.
Barcelona submitted two offers for the French striker, but Bournemouth rejected both proposals.
The Cherries valued Kroupi at more than €100 million and were unwilling to sell one of their principal attacking threats, making an agreement difficult to reach.
Kroupi closes in on return after serious injury
Kroupi’s injury in July interrupted his progress and complicated Barcelona’s assessment of their attacking options.
However, the forward has now resumed training on the pitch as he approaches the next stage of his recovery.
Barcelona had two bids rejected for Eli Junior Kroupi. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
His return will be important not only for Bournemouth but also for any club considering a future move.
Regaining match fitness and demonstrating that he can reproduce his previous performances will be essential if Barcelona are to renew their interest.
Could Barcelona revisit Kroupi in summer 2027?
On that note, Barcelona could reconsider Kroupi in 2027, although there is no guarantee that he will become a priority target.
This is because much will depend on the club’s requirements at centre-forward and how their current attacking options perform over the coming months.
Hansi Flick has several players contributing to Barcelona’s forward line, including Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Gabriel Jesus, Raphinha, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez.
Hence, their performances and future transfer plans could influence whether the club needs to invest in another striker.