Choupo Moting Linked to Barcelona: Xavi’s Pursuit of Experienced Forward

The economic constraints facing Barcelona have shifted their focus to the upcoming summer transfer market, with a keen eye on experienced players set to become free agents. Among them is 34-year-old striker Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting, whose contract with Bayern Munich expires on June 30. Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur specifically places the Cameroonian forward in the orbit of FC Barcelona, although other clubs in the Premier League, Serie A, and the Saudi Pro League are reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

Taking the Reins from Lewandowski Choupo-Moting stepped into the limelight at Bayern Munich when Robert Lewandowski joined FC Barcelona last season. The Cameroonian, who had been in the shadows of the Polish striker, seized the opportunity. From October 2022 to late January, he enjoyed a prolific goal-scoring streak, although his prominence dwindled afterward, and a knee injury disrupted his continuity.

Choupo-Moting scored a total of 17 goals in 30 matches during that period, including one against Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou (0-3), marking his standout season.

Substitute Role under Thomas Tuchel While Julian Nagelsmann’s confidence in Choupo-Moting was significant, his fortunes changed under Thomas Tuchel, who acquired English striker Harry Kane last summer. Kane, a marquee signing, has relegated Choupo-Moting to a secondary role, with the Cameroonian only managing to score 3 goals in 27 matches, mostly as a substitute.

With Kane secured until 2027 and a hefty transfer fee involved, Choupo-Moting faces an inevitable change of scenery. If he were to join Barcelona, it would be at the age of 35 (turning this March), a few months older than Lewandowski when he arrived, who will turn 36 in August.