Eli Junior Kroupi’s performances during his first season with Bournemouth have led to widespread interest in his signature.
Eli Junior Kroupi only joined Bournemouth last summer in a €15million move from Lorient but quickly adapted to English football, scoring 13 goals in 35 appearances during his debut season.
The 20-year-old’s impressive performances helped the Cherries secure Europa League qualification for the first time in the club’s history, with Kroupi contributing 13 goals in 33 Premier League appearances during the 2025/26 campaign.
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His form has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Liverpool and Barcelona. The Reds have monitored the striker’s situation, particularly with Hugo Ekitike expected to miss a significant part of next season through injury.
Barcelona have identified Kroupi as a potential alternative target as they search for a new striker. Julian Alvarez remains their priority, but the Spanish champions are preparing backup options in case a move for the Atletico Madrid forward fails.
According to L’Équipe, Barcelona have already submitted two offers for Kroupi, both below €100million, but Bournemouth rejected both bids.
The Lorient academy graduate still has four years remaining on his contract, and while he is excited by the possibility of joining Barcelona, Bournemouth remain determined to keep hold of their young star.
Bournemouth boss Marco Rose is confident he can keep hold of Junior Kroupi as the club prepare for their first-ever European campaign.
“So far, it’s not a challenge for me, to be honest,” said the former Borussia Dortmund head coach. “The first four days, we are in touch and my feeling is that the boys are feeling really good here.
“Kroupi made great improvement last season, so I think for him there’s no ceiling. Even he knows that he’s in a good place to improve.
“He’s playing in Europe, he’ll have many games and he’s playing in the most competitive and intensive league in the world. So far I don’t have the feeling that anyone is trying to leave the club.”
Barcelona have already completed deals for wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, signing them from Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund respectively.
Hansi Flick is determined to revamp his attacking options ahead of his third season in charge. After securing back-to-back La Liga titles, Flick wants a squad capable of challenging for Champions League glory.
Barcelona
Bournemouth
Eli Junior Kroupi