Barcelona’s Julian Alvarez alternative would welcome the opportunity to move to Camp Nou – but there’s a catch
Barcelona transfer news this summer focuses on the club’s search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski, with Julian Alvarez remaining the club’s top priority.
However, the Blaugrana are also preparing for the possibility that a deal for the Atletico Madrid striker may not materialise.
On that note, Barcelona have identified Eli Junior Kroupi as their leading alternative if they fail to complete the Julian Alvarez transfer.
The highly-rated Bournemouth attacker is admired internally, and according to SPORT, the player himself would welcome the opportunity to wear the Blaugrana shirt.
Despite that interest, though, Barcelona know any move for the French youngster would require a huge financial commitment, with Bournemouth valuing one of their brightest stars at close to €100 million.
Eli Junior Kroupi emerges as Barcelona’s Plan B
While Barcelona remain interested in Julian Alvarez, the club has been working on alternative options to avoid being left without a marquee striker before the transfer window closes.
Eli Junior Kroupi would welcome the opportunity to sign for Barcelona. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
The latest Barcelona transfer reports suggest that Eli Junior Kroupi has moved to the top of that shortlist.
The 20-year-old has impressed with his rapid development and is viewed as one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards.
However, completing a deal will be far from straightforward, as Bournemouth have made it clear they do not intend to sell the striker during the current summer transfer window.
Even so, Barcelona are aware that transfer situations can evolve quickly, particularly when top clubs begin competing for the same player.
Tottenham, PSG and Barcelona in a fierce battle
Understandably, Barcelona are not alone in pursuing the talented forward, with Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain also monitoring the striker, with both clubs prepared to invest around €100 million to secure his signature.
Eli Junior Kroupi is Alvarez’s alternative for Barcelona. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
One factor that could work in Barcelona’s favour is the player’s pathway into the first team.
PSG already possess an established group of attacking players, whereas Barcelona could soon have space available in their frontline.
With Robert Lewandowski now gone and uncertainty continuing to surround Raphinha’s future, the project at Camp Nou could offer Kroupi a more prominent role over the coming seasons.
As such, reports also suggest the player is eager to take the next step in his career by joining one of Europe’s biggest clubs, a factor that could become significant if Bournemouth eventually soften their stance.
However, it is certain that Barcelona will not pay €100 million for a 20-year-old even if he pushes a move out of Bournemouth.
