Arsenal decision reached as 'flattered' Kroupi learns chances of January move
Bournemouth have responded to Arsenal's renewed interest in forward Eli Junior Kroupi following his return from injury.
The 20-year-old is back in the Cherries' squad after a months-long lay-off due to a foot injury suffered in pre-season. Kroupi made his comeback in the 3-0 win over Man Utd two weeks ago, and he bagged his first goal contribution with an assist against Leeds at the weekend.
Prior to his injury, Kroupi had been one of the Premier League's most in-demand players. He bagged 13 goals in his first season in England, a record for a teenager, and emerged on the radar of numerous big hitters.
Arsenal and Barcelona were among the clubs to show interest in the France youth international in the summer, but Bournemouth were unwilling to entertain offers, while his injury ultimately made a transfer completely impossible.
Kroupi has made no secret of the fact that he wants to play for the biggest clubs in the world, meaning that Bournemouth will have to let him go sooner rather than later. Following his return from injury, Arsenal seem to be back in the mix to sign him.
Arsenal learn Kroupi fate
The Gunners are likely to be in need of attacking reinforcements in 2027. Not only do they need to bolster their left wing, but they will also possibly require a replacement for the disgruntled Viktor Gyokeres, who is unhappy with his game time and expected to depart.
There have been suggestions that Arsenal could make a move for Kroupi as early as January in order to steal a march on potential rivals, such as PSG, who have also taken a liking to the 20-year-old.
However, TEAMtalk reports that Bournemouth have no intention of losing the forward mid-season. The South Coast club insist that they will "not be forced into selling" Kroupi.
The Frenchman doesn't have a release clause and is under contract until 2030, so there is no pressure on Bournemouth to cash in on him. A winter move is therefore highly improbable.
And Kroupi himself does not appear to be thinking about a transfer just yet. Although he is aware of Arsenal's interest and "flattered" by it, his sole focus is on getting fully fit and recapturing his form from last season.
Bournemouth would be foolish to sanction a January exodus in the midst of their first season in Europe, so there will be no major exits beyond possibly Alex Scott, who has been trying to get out since the summer.
Although Arsenal are said to be willing to dip into the market in the upcoming window, a Kroupi deal won't be on the agenda.
