Barcelona looking at Premier League teenager as Julian Alvarez alternative – report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are increasingly aware that the striker market is becoming exceptionally difficult this summer. There are few realistic options available and even fewer proven forwards who are genuinely attainable.

As a result, the club remains committed to pursuing Julian Alvarez for as long as possible.

Deco and Hansi Flick see the Atletico Madrid star as the ideal addition to strengthen the attack, and Barça are prepared to make a significant effort to sign him, although they remain unwilling to exceed what they consider a reasonable valuation.

Eli Junior Kroupi emerges as an alternative

Behind the scenes, however, the club is assessing alternative targets. One name attracting growing attention is Eli Junior Kroupi of AFC Bournemouth, according to SPORT.

The 19-year-old forward is highly regarded within the Catalans’ sporting department, but any move would carry a degree of risk due to his age and limited experience at the highest level.

Barcelona like Eli Junior Kroupi. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Ideally, Barça would prefer to revisit a potential deal in the future, perhaps next season, but circumstances could force them to accelerate their plans.

Kroupi monitored closely

As per the report, Kroupi has been closely monitored by Barcelona throughout the campaign, following an impressive breakthrough season in the Premier League that confirmed the promise he had already shown at Lorient.

Quick, agile and technically gifted, he combines strong dribbling ability with intelligent movement and link-up play.

There is little doubt that Barcelona admire the player and have gathered extensive information about his situation.

His 13 goals this season have only increased his reputation, and some within Barcelona believe his numbers could improve significantly in a more dominant attacking side.

Financial concerns remain

However, for Barcelona, the main concern is financial. Investing a substantial fee in a teenager remains a significant gamble, particularly given Bournemouth’s valuation.

The English club has informed interested sides, including Barcelona, that they would not consider offers below €100 million.

Julian Alvarez remains the priority. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

While that appears to be an opening negotiating position, Kroupi’s estimated market value is closer to €70 million, and Bournemouth could potentially be interested in including Barcelona players in any future discussions.

Competition for his signature is also growing. Premier League clubs such as Arsenal have shown interest, while PSG are considering him as a possible replacement should Bradley Barcola leave the French champions.

Although no formal offers have emerged, there is a strong possibility that Kroupi could leave Bournemouth this summer. If Barcelona genuinely want him, they may need to act sooner rather than later.

For now, Barcelona’s priority remains Julian Alvarez. But if that pursuit proves too complicated or too expensive, Barcelona could be forced to move for Kroupi.