Club blocks summer exit for Barcelona striker target | OneFootball

Barcelona want to sign Julian Alvarez this summer, but there is no guarantee that they will bring him to the Spotify Camp Nou. Atletico Madrid are determined not to sell to a direct rival, and if they do not relax their stance, the Catalans will be forced to move on to alternative candidates.

One of the targets Barcelona have lined up alongside Alvarez is Eli Junior Kroupi. The Bournemouth forward has become one of the most sought-after players across Europe after a fine first season in the Premier League, and the La Liga champions are open to moving for him if Atleti close the door on a deal for Alvarez.

The problem for Barcelona is that Bournemouth’s stance is similar to that of Atleti’s. According to Marca, the Premier League club have closed the door on a possible exit, having decided that no offers will be entertained from any of the 20-year-old’s suitors – including Barcelona.

Barcelona’s list of targets is shrinking

It’s becoming more and more difficult for Barcelona to move on from Alvarez if Atleti block their transfer efforts. They already had to strike Harry Kane from their shortlist, and now Kroupi can be added to the list of players that the Catalans will not be able to sign this summer.

Kroupi would have been a risky signing for Barcelona in that it would likely have taken in excess of €100m for someone with only one year of experience at the highest level. It could mean that it’s a blessing in disguise that he will not be available this summer, and it keeps the door open for a possible move down the line in 2027 or 2028.

It remains to be seen who Barcelona sign as their new striker this summer, but their list of options is waning by the day.