Barcelona are already looking ahead to strengthening their attack for 2027, with Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi reportedly emerging as one of the club’s priority targets.
The 20-year-old Frenchman is said to be particularly admired by manager Hansi Flick, who is believed to view Kroupi as a more attractive option than Victor Osimhen. According to El Nacional, the Barcelona coach is placing particular value on the attacker’s room for improvement and his long-term potential.
Kroupi scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season, demonstrating that he can be effective at the highest level despite his age. His performances, combined with his scope for further development, are understood to have strengthened his appeal to Flick.
The preference reflects the German coach’s reported sporting vision for Barcelona. Rather than focusing solely on immediate returns, Flick would like to invest in a player capable of becoming a long-term part of the club’s project and around whom the side could be built over several seasons.
Osimhen offers a different profile. The Nigeria international is known for his physical power, goalscoring ability and experience in major competitions, making him a more obvious choice for a club seeking an immediate impact. His qualities could meet Barcelona’s needs, but Flick is reportedly more attracted to Kroupi’s potential for development.
Any move for Kroupi would present a significant financial challenge. He is under contract with Bournemouth until June 2030 and is valued at 70 million euros by Transfermarkt. Bournemouth would also be in a position to demand a substantial transfer fee before agreeing to his departure.
Flick’s reported preference does not guarantee that Kroupi will join Barcelona, but it could influence the club’s recruitment strategy as it searches for an attacking reinforcement for 2027. Kroupi’s reported annual salary is 1,192,975 euros (775,433,750 FCFA).
Barcelona will shortly play their ninth-day match in the Spanish league against Real Betis. The published odds list Barcelona at 1.34 to win, with a draw priced at 6.00 and Real Betis at 5.00.