Barcelona and Man City assess Kroupi options as Bournemouth stand firm

Barcelona and Manchester City have both explored a move for Eli Junior Kroupi, but Bournemouth are refusing to entertain the prospect of selling the highly rated forward in the current transfer window.

The French attacker, who is under contract at the Vitality Stadium until June 2030, has drawn increasing interest from leading European clubs after his recent performances, with Barcelona and Manchester City among those monitoring his situation.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona have examined Kroupi as a potential target in recent weeks. Club officials added the 18-year-old to a shortlist of attacking options should their pursuit of Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez fail to progress.

The Catalan side’s work on Kroupi is part of a wider strategy to prepare for multiple scenarios in the market, with a view to strengthening their forward line with players regarded as having significant long-term potential.

City attention highlights rising profile

Barcelona are not alone in tracking the Bournemouth player. Romano reports that Manchester City have also made enquiries about Kroupi this month, underlining the growing reputation of the France youth international across Europe.

The parallel interest from two of the continent’s heavyweight clubs is seen as further confirmation of Kroupi’s rising status on the transfer market, with his development closely followed by leading recruitment departments.

Despite that attention, Bournemouth’s stance remains uncompromising. The Premier League club have made it clear they intend to keep Kroupi and are not planning for any departure during this window.

Bournemouth determined to keep forward —

At this stage, Bournemouth’s hierarchy have no intention of opening negotiations over a transfer. The Cherries view Kroupi as an important part of their long-term project and are determined to build around him rather than cash in.

Any club hoping to change Bournemouth’s position would therefore need to present an exceptionally persuasive proposal if the situation is to shift in the coming months.

Kroupi, who has Ivorian origins but represents France at youth level, is currently valued at €70m by Transfermarkt. He earns an annual salary of €1,192,975, equivalent to 775,433,750 CFA francs.

With a lengthy contract, a firm stance from Bournemouth and two European giants circling, Kroupi’s future is likely to remain a talking point as clubs refine their attacking options for the seasons ahead.