Barcelona keep close eye on Bournemouth star as €100m transfer interest remains alive

Barcelona are continuing to monitor Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi as he closes in on a return from the foot injury that disrupted a potential summer transfer.

The 20-year-old was a serious target for the Spanish giants during the summer window. Barcelona contacted his representatives to explore whether a deal was possible, but his injury complicated their plans.

Bournemouth’s reported €100m valuation was another major obstacle, although that did not completely discourage Barcelona.

According to Sport, Kroupi remains highly rated within Barcelona’s sporting department.

The Catalan club considered him during the summer as they assessed potential attacking additions, with president Joan Laporta also said to have supported the idea.

There were even figures within Barcelona who preferred Kroupi to Julian Alvarez, believing the Bournemouth forward’s work rate and pressing qualities would make him particularly suitable for Hansi Flick’s football.

His injury ultimately prevented the interest from developing into a transfer.

However, Barcelona have not walked away.

Barcelona have reportedly maintained contact with Kroupi’s representatives since the summer.

That leaves them well positioned should they decide to revive their pursuit in a future transfer window.

For now, the priority is seeing how the France youngster responds after his lengthy absence.

Kroupi has been sidelined for 66 days and has missed seven matches because of the foot problem, but he is now approaching the final stages of his rehabilitation.

Barcelona will be paying particularly close attention once he returns to competitive action.

Barcelona reportedly believe further development in the Premier League could strengthen Kroupi’s case for a future move to the Camp Nou.

That would also give them more evidence before committing to the kind of major investment Bournemouth would demand.

The Premier League club reportedly valued Kroupi at €100m during the summer, making any potential transfer a significant financial commitment.

Barcelona therefore appear prepared to watch and wait.

If Kroupi returns strongly and continues his development at Bournemouth, their interest could become much more concrete again.

Kroupi is approaching the final stages of his recovery after 66 days on the sidelines.

Barcelona’s immediate focus will be on his performances once he returns for Bournemouth. A strong comeback could revive their transfer interest, although Bournemouth’s valuation means any future negotiations would still require a substantial financial commitment.