​Bundesliga forward emerges as a strong option for Barcelona after Eli Junior Kroupi setbackBarcelona’s search for a new striker this summer seems to be going nowhere. Every light at the end of the tunnel has so far ended up being an oncoming train.The club’s dream and priority still continues to be Julian Alvarez, but with every passing day, the hope of signing him from Atletico Madrid keeps dissipating.The club briefly turned their attention to Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi but quickly withdrew their interest. The Frenchman also suffered an injury that is set to keep him out for most of 2026.So, now, according to SPORT, Barcelona’s search for a new striker has taken a fresh turn, with Hoffenheim forward Fisnik Asllani now climbing the club’s shortlist.Asllani is now said to be one of the strongest alternatives if the club decide to recruit another No. 9.Kroupi injury changes Barcelona’s plansOut for 3-4 months. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)The report claims Kroupi’s injury-enforced absence has removed one of Barcelona’s preferred back-up options in the striker market.That development has opened the door for Asllani, who is willing to delay other opportunities in the hope of receiving a call from Camp Nou.Barcelona’s sporting department are said to view the Kosovo international as a player with the right balance of quality, potential and affordability, making him an increasingly attractive option.Why Flick likes AsllaniAsllani’s profile is believed to suit the demands Hansi Flick places on his centre-forwards.Standing around 1.92 metres tall, the 23-year-old combines physical presence with mobility, presses aggressively from the front and offers a strong aerial threat.He also impressed in the Bundesliga last season with 10 goals and seven assists, while showing the ability to finish comfortably with either foot.Climbing on the list. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)Financially viable optionFinancially, Asllani is viewed as one of the more realistic options available. His €29 million release clause falls within a range Barcelona believe they could manage, and there is optimism that Hoffenheim could even negotiate below that figure.However, the Catalan club may not have unlimited time to make a decision.RB Leipzig already have an agreement in principle with the player, although Asllani has asked for patience because of his desire to join Barcelona.However, if Barça do not act on their interest in the coming weeks, it could leave Asllani in a situation where he is forced to accept another offer.As of now, there is not much clarity on whether this is a road the Blaugrana want to go down this summer, and it remains to be seen whether Deco makes a concrete push to sign the 23-year-old.