Arsenal and Manchester United have stepped up their interest in Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi after the 20-year-old returned from a serious foot injury.
Kroupi scored 13 goals during an impressive first Premier League campaign last season, before suffering a fractured metatarsal in pre-season. He made his comeback against Manchester United last weekend, prompting renewed enquiries over his fitness and availability.
Both clubs are understood to be monitoring the France youth international closely, with Arsenal’s interest in the forward already well established.
Arsenal and Manchester United assess Kroupi’s availability
Chelsea, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona had also shown interest in Kroupi during the summer. His injury, however, ended the prospect of a move at that stage.
Bournemouth are determined to retain the player during the January window, while his contract runs until 2030. That leaves the club in a strong negotiating position should any suitor attempt to make an offer.
Kroupi is valued at around £80 million, a figure that would make a mid-season move a significant commitment, particularly after his lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Arsenal are seeking an attacking option capable of operating through the middle or moving into wide areas. Manchester United are also assessing reinforcements in attack amid Benjamin Šeško’s injury problems.
Bournemouth manager Marco Rose praised Kroupi before his return against United, saying: “He has a good attitude and he is a special player.”
Despite the interest, a January transfer appears unlikely. Kroupi has only just returned to action and Bournemouth have little incentive to sell halfway through the season.
Arsenal and Manchester United are therefore expected to continue watching his progress over the remainder of the campaign. If Kroupi quickly rediscovers the form that brought him 13 league goals last season, competition for his signature could intensify next summer.
