Barcelona Scrutinizes Karl Etta Eyong's AFCON Performance Amidst Striker Search

FC Barcelona's search for a centre-forward to bolster their squad in the summer of 2026 has led them to closely observe Karl Etta Eyong's performance at the Africa Cup of Nations. With Robert Lewandowski's contract nearing its end and no renewal talks underway, the Catalan club is actively scouting potential replacements. While names like Julian Alvarez and Harry Kane have been linked, the 22-year-old Cameroonian striker from Levante has emerged as a viable option, particularly given Barcelona's financial constraints.

Eyong, who previously played for Villarreal, caught Barcelona's attention last summer before ultimately joining Levante. Now, according to reports, Barcelona scouts are meticulously analyzing his displays for Cameroon at AFCON. His tournament debut saw him score the winning goal against Gabon, immediately placing him under the spotlight.

Prior to AFCON, Eyong demonstrated his capabilities in La Liga, contributing six goals and three assists in 15 appearances for Levante. This output provides a statistical basis for Barcelona's interest, indicating his potential to contribute offensively. His current contract includes a €30 million release clause, but reports suggest he could be available for around €15 million due to specific clauses in the agreement between Levante and Villarreal. This reduced price tag makes him an attractive, lower-risk option for Barcelona.

Barcelona's assessment of Eyong at AFCON is crucial, serving as a litmus test for his ability to perform under pressure in a major international tournament. His performances against varied opposition and in high-stakes matches will provide valuable insights into his temperament, adaptability, and overall suitability for a club like Barcelona. The tournament provides a concentrated period of evaluation, allowing Barcelona to gauge his consistency and impact more effectively than relying solely on La Liga performances. A strong showing at AFCON could significantly increase his market value and solidify Barcelona's interest, while a lackluster performance could lead them to explore other options.

The potential acquisition of Eyong represents a strategic gamble for Barcelona. He is an emerging player with the potential to develop into a key asset. His performances at AFCON will be instrumental in determining whether Barcelona pursues this low-cost option or seeks a more established, albeit more expensive, alternative.

Editor’s note: This article was independently written by the Scoopliner Editorial Team using publicly available information.