Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi reportedly has his heart set on joining Barcelona, with a move to Catalonia possible as early as next year.
Barcelona Interest in Kroupi
Spanish journalist Juan Jesus claims Barcelona are monitoring the 20-year-old as they look to strengthen their attack in one of the next two transfer windows. He says Barça are “the club of his heart”, and the player is making no secret of it.
There is a complication, though. Kroupi’s agent, Moussa Sissoko, is said to have a strained relationship with president Joan Laporta following the Ousmane Dembele saga. Sissoko is reportedly working to repair relations through sporting director Deco.
Kroupi’s Rapid Rise at Bournemouth
Kroupi joined the Cherries from Lorient in February 2025 and was immediately loaned back to the French side before arriving at the Vitality Stadium ahead of 2025/26. Despite not always being a guaranteed starter, he has netted 13 goals in 35 appearances, playing just 1,839 minutes. His contribution helped Bournemouth finish sixth in the Premier League.
Why Barcelona Need a Striker
Barcelona are searching for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Gabriel Jesus arrived from Arsenal in the summer, but he is viewed as a backup option. Raphinha has impressed in the central role, yet he is not seen as a permanent solution.
Landing Kroupi will not be easy. Reports suggest Bournemouth have no intention of selling in January, and Arsenal are also keen on the Frenchman.
Our Take
Kroupi’s openness about his Barcelona dream gives the Catalans a genuine edge over Arsenal, but desire alone will not move Bournemouth. The Cherries hold the leverage, and a player of his age and output will command a substantial fee. The agent tension is the bigger worry, as it could slow negotiations considerably. A summer approach looks far more realistic than a winter one, and Barcelona should expect a lengthy chase.