Barcelona target Eli Junior Kroupi has made clear his ambition to play for one of Europe's biggest clubs, potentially strengthening the Catalan side's interest in the Bournemouth forward ahead of future transfer windows.
The 20-year-old has acknowledged his desire to reach the highest level while insisting that his immediate priority remains performing for Bournemouth following his return from a foot injury.
Speaking to DAZN France , Kroupi discussed his long-term ambitions and his commitment to his current club.
Barcelona previously explored the possibility of signing the Frenchman as they assessed alternatives for their centre-forward position, although his reported valuation of more than €100 million made a deal difficult.
Kroupi has not hidden his desire to take the next step in his career, identifying the biggest clubs and strongest leagues as his long-term destination.
"I'm going to give it my all to play for the world's biggest clubs, in the world's top leagues,"Kroupi said.
The forward was also quick to stress that his ambitions would not distract him from his responsibilities at Bournemouth.
Eli Junior Kroupi wants to play for a bigger club. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
"At Bournemouth, I'm going to give it my all for the fans and to help the team perform well."
Barcelona had already assessed Kroupi as a possible attacking reinforcement last summer.
The club's sporting department contacted his representatives while exploring alternatives to Julian Alvarez, whose potential arrival presented its own difficulties.
Kroupi's valuation, estimated at nearly €100 million, proved a significant obstacle.
Furthermore, an injury sustained at the end of July subsequently interrupted the transfer speculation before it could develop further.
Kroupi recently returned to action against Manchester United after recovering from a fracture to the fifth metatarsal in his right foot.
The setback disrupted a crucial period in which his future had attracted attention, leaving questions about how events might have unfolded without the injury.
Barcelona continue to monitor Eli Junior Kroup. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Asked whether he would still have been at Bournemouth had he remained fit, the Frenchman admitted he could not know.
"I can't say. I don't know what would have happened,"he said.
A move next summer appears more realistic than a January transfer, given Kroupi's recent injury and the potential cost of signing him from Bournemouth.
Barcelona would need to assess his performances after returning to regular action while determining whether the financial commitment fits their wider squad plans.
Kroupi's ambition to reach the top level is clear, but his comments do not amount to a declaration that he wants to leave Bournemouth or a confirmation that negotiations with Barcelona are ongoing.
"When I was a child, playing in the Premier League was my dream. As I grew up, that dream became a goal,"he explained.
Having already reached that milestone, the forward is now looking towards the next stage of his development.
