Barcelona’s chances of signing Julián Álvarez seem unlikely at the moment, forcing the Catalan club to consider cheaper, lesser-known alternatives. According to Sport, Barça’s technical department has taken note of Eli Junior Crupi, a 20-year-old French striker who plays for Bournemouth in the Premier League.
With 13 goals in league matches, he is attracting attention as a potential addition to top clubs. Crupi, who is of Ivorian descent, has represented France at Under-21 level and could soon break into the first-team set-up as back-up to the likes of Mbappé, Dembele and Douai.
“Reports regarding the potential of the player, who was born to an Ivorian father and a Portuguese mother, are very positive,” said Sport newspaper, adding that Barcelona have been keeping a close eye on his developments since his early days at Lorient. According to Transfermarkt, he is already valued at 70 million euros, which is still a significant amount, but much lower than what Atletico Madrid would ask to sell Julián Álvarez.
Some reports suggest Bournemouth are aiming to make a further move this summer for the player, who has also been linked with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. What is clear is that he is a high-potential forward who can fill Barcelona’s attacking needs following the departure of Robert Lewandowski, continued doubts over Ferran Torres and complications surrounding the transfer of Julián Álvarez.
