Revealed: The transfer puzzle Arsenal need to solve in order to make Kroupi bid

Arsenal remain admirers of Bournemouth star Eli Junior Kroupi but they would need to make a sale in order to fund a January move, The Independent reports.

The Gunners have a long-standing interest in Kroupi, who has developed a reputation as one of the most promising forwards in Europe.

Arsenal considered making a bid for Kroupi in the summer as they looked to capitalise on their Premier League title success by bolstering their attack.

However, Bournemouth had no interest in selling the 20-year-old, who fired them into this season’s Europa League by scoring 13 league goals last term.

One of those strikes came in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City in May - a result which helped Arsenal capture their first league title for 22 years.

Eli Junior Kroupi with a glorious finish to give Bournemouth the lead against Man City! 🍒 https://t.co/Zd5si2q7yX

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 19, 2026

The Independent understands Arsenal remain intent on strengthening their front line in January provided the right target becomes available.

Mikel Arteta’s side are considering the merits of RB Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa, Atletico Madrid’s Alex Baena and Real Madrid’s Endrick.

Yet their dream signing is believed to be Kroupi, despite the fact he has only just returned from a foot injury sustained in pre-season.

However, Miguel Delaney, the Chief Football Writer at The Independent, says any deal is dependent on Arsenal making a sale.

Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi has interest from Real, Atletico and Chelsea having appeared to fallen out of favour at Arsenal this season.

The 27-year-old has made 12 appearances for the north London club this season but only three of them have come as a starter.

Arsenal would reportedly want to recoup the €70m (£58.5m) they shelled out on signing Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in July 2025.

Kroupi, who was selected for the France senior squad for the first time this week, holds a valuation of at least €120m (£100m), according to various sources.

BBC Sport reported in October that Bournemouth are open to selling Arenal-linked Alex Scott in January under certain conditions.

However, they did not mention Kroupi, who is tied to the south-coast club until 2030. There are also no reports suggesting he has a release clause in his contract.

While Arsenal are keen to beef up their attack, they have made a fantastic start to the season regardless, with Arteta’s men currently five points clear at the Premier League summit.

They return to action when they travel to Newcastle United in the league on Saturday, 21 November following the international break.