Barcelona keep Eli Junior Kroupi on transfer shortlist after Bournemouth bids rejected

Barcelona are continuing to monitor Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi and could make another move for the Franco-Ivorian next summer, despite having two offers worth almost 100m euros rejected by the Premier League club last summer.

The Catalan club are enjoying a strong start to the season but are already planning possible reinforcements in several areas ahead of future transfer windows. Strengthening the attack remains a particular priority following the departure of Robert Lewandowski and Barcelona’s unsuccessful pursuit of Julian Alvarez.

According to MediaSport, Kroupi remains among the options being assessed by sporting director Deco and Barcelona’s recruitment team. The 20-year-old is viewed as a player whose qualities could suit Hansi Flick’s system.

Kroupi’s performances at the highest level, together with his age and scope for improvement, have made him an attractive long-term option. Barcelona are not the only major European club interested, however, and competition for his signature is expected to increase over the coming months.

Any potential deal would also have to meet Bournemouth’s valuation. Kroupi is under contract with the Cherries until June 2030, leaving the club in a strong negotiating position should he attract a formal offer.

His market value is estimated at 70m euros by Transfermarkt, although Bournemouth could demand a significantly higher fee given the length of his contract and the two offers of nearly 100m euros they turned down last summer.

Barcelona will soon face Real Madrid in their 10th La Liga match of the season. The listed betting odds for the fixture are 1.65 for a Barcelona victory, 6.00 for a draw and 4.32 for a Real Madrid win.