Barcelona has had two initial bids for 20-year-old French striker Eli Junior Kroupi rejected by Bournemouth. The La Liga champions, who finished the 2025 season top of the table with 94 points (31 wins, 1 draw, 6 losses), are looking to bolster their attack after Robert Lewandowski’s move to Chicago Fire.
Why is Bournemouth saying no?
Bournemouth has turned down both offers, understood to be below €100 million, per L'Equipe. Despite Barcelona’s interest, the Premier League side is holding firm, though Kroupi - thrilled by the prospect of joining the Blaugrana - has reportedly urged his representatives to push for a deal.
What does this mean for Barça?
Manager Hansi Flick sees Kroupi as a unique technical and explosive talent, ideal to fill the void left by Lewandowski. The youngster, who broke the record for most goals by a teenager in a debut Premier League season (13 goals), could be a long-term bet. Yet, the club still prioritizes Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez, whose transfer remains stalled due to Miguel Ángel Gil Marín’s stubborn stance.
What’s next in the transfer window?
As Barcelona negotiates, their next official fixture is away to Villarreal on February 14, 2027. With 95 goals scored in 2025 and an 8-point lead over Real Madrid, Joan Laporta’s side won’t ease up in their hunt for a world-class striker.
