SAALFELDEN, AUSTRIA - JULY 26: Eli Junior Kroupi of Bournemouth during a pre-season training session at Saalfelden Arena on July 26, 2026 in Saalfelden, Austria. (Photo by Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images
Luis Mazariegos Luis Mazariegos has been a lead writer and editor for Barca Blaugranes since 2012, bringing tactical analysis, transfer reports, opinion columns, and investigative coverage to the SB Nation network. An award-winning journalist, he has held press credentials for Champions League and La Liga fixtures – reporting live from the stadium, press box, and press conferences. He frequently provides commentary as a guest on football podcasts and radio shows. In addition to his sports media work, Luis spent over a decade in broadcast television and currently serves as an editor for a major digital news network.
Eli Junior Kroupi has recovered from a foot injury that has kept him out for around three months. The Bournemouth striker was linked with a move to FC Barcelona last summer, though it never came to pass. A new report says the Catalans haven’t given up on signing the 20-year-old forward.
Kroupi’s 13 goals in 35 appearances last season made European teams look towards him, especially as top strikers are rare in today’s game. Barcelona, in particular, had him as a second option after Atlético de Madrid refused to negotiate for Julián Álvarez. Barça reportedly made two offers nearing 100 million euro for the Frenchman, though they were turned down. The injury, as well as Bournemouth’s firm stance against selling him, made Barcelona back off.
There are whispers that Barcelona are interested in another go at signing him, perhaps next summer. One factor that plays in his favor is his young age. He still has plenty of time to develop, as well as time to run down his contract.
Barça instead signed Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal FC last summer. The Brazilian was signed to be a back-up, not a starter. Raphinha has moved from the wing to playing in the center-forward role after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, last season’s top two strikers.