Barcelona Enquire About Bournemouth Forward Kroupi, but Alvarez Remains Top Target
Sources have told the media that Barcelona have made initial contact with the representatives of Bournemouth's promising forward Eli Junior Kroupi to explore a possible transfer. However, Atletico Madrid's Alvarez remains the La Liga giants' first-choice target to strengthen their attack this summer.
After completing deals for wide players Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, Barcelona are in urgent need of an out-and-out centre-forward to fill the void left by Lewandowski's departure. The Polish striker has moved to MLS side Chicago Fire.
Club president Laporta confirmed that Barcelona have submitted a formal offer for Alvarez. The Argentine forward told foreign media in June that he wanted to leave Atletico, but the bid has not yet been accepted. Laporta said the offer would remain valid should Atletico change their stance, although it would not remain on the table indefinitely.
To cover all bases, Barcelona are also actively assessing alternative options. Sources told the media that they have enquired about the terms of a transfer for Kroupi.
The 20-year-old Kroupi has been linked with several leading European clubs this summer. According to relevant media reports, Bournemouth are reluctant to sell and could demand more than EUR100 million.
The France Under-21 international joined the Premier League club from Lorient for just EUR15 million last summer and scored 13 goals in 35 appearances in his debut season.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick plans to reshape his forward line in his third season in charge. He has guided the club to consecutive La Liga titles, but has been unable to make a breakthrough in the Champions League.
Gordon joined from Newcastle United, Adeyemi arrived from Borussia Dortmund, Lewandowski moved to MLS, while Marcus Rashford returned to Manchester United after his loan spell ended.
There is also uncertainty surrounding Ferran Torres' future. The Spain international, who scored the winning goal against Argentina in the World Cup final, has a contract that expires in 2027, and renewal talks have made no progress. Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly monitoring his situation closely.