Arsenal remain interested in Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi despite the injury that has ruled him out for several months, with Manchester United and Liverpool also keeping track of the highly rated France Under-21 international.
Kroupi’s prospects of leaving the Vitality Stadium this summer were effectively ended after he underwent surgery on a fractured metatarsal suffered during Bournemouth’s pre-season preparations. He is expected to be sidelined for up to four months.
However, Arsenal are understood to regard the 20-year-old as a longer-term attacking target rather than a player they need to sign immediately. Mikel Arteta’s recruitment team have monitored Kroupi since his breakthrough Premier League campaign, in which he scored 13 goals in 33 appearances.
Arsenal maintain interest in injured Bournemouth forward
The forward’s 13-goal haul made him the highest-scoring teenager in a debut Premier League season, surpassing the previous mark jointly held by Robbie Fowler and Robbie Keane.
That form has attracted interest from several leading clubs. Liverpool and Manchester United have made enquiries about Kroupi’s availability, although neither is believed to be ready to commit to a substantial fee while the player remains unavailable.
Arsenal are similarly expected to take a measured approach. The club already have established options in attack, meaning there is no immediate pressure to pursue a deal for a player who is unlikely to return until later in the autumn.
Bournemouth have also made clear that Kroupi is central to their plans. The Guardian reported in May that the club were determined to resist summer approaches for the striker, who joined from Lorient after helping his former side secure promotion in France.
The Cherries are under no financial pressure to sell and Kroupi’s long-term contract strengthens their negotiating position. Earlier reports suggested Bournemouth could demand at least £80 million for one of the most highly regarded young forwards in the Premier League.
His injury has therefore changed the timing of any potential transfer rather than ending the interest. Arsenal are expected to continue assessing his recovery before deciding whether to make a move once he has returned to full fitness.
A strong comeback could lead to renewed discussions during the January window, although Bournemouth’s resolve and the level of competition from Liverpool and Manchester United are likely to remain significant factors.
