Arsenal and Manchester United have enquired about Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi as they assess potential attacking reinforcements.
TEAMtalk reports that both clubs have asked about the France Under-21 international's fitness and situation following his return from a serious foot injury. Bournemouth, meanwhile, are reportedly unwilling to sell the 20-year-old in the January transfer window.
Kroupi remains under contract until 30 June 2030, giving Bournemouth a strong position in any potential transfer negotiations.
Why Kroupi’s injury return revived interest
Kroupi suffered a foot injury during Bournemouth's pre-season training camp in Austria. The club confirmed on 29 July that he had undergone successful surgery, with The Athletic reporting that he was expected to be out for three to four months.
He returned as a substitute in Bournemouth's 3-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United on 25 October. Ahead of the game, manager Marco Rose had indicated that the forward would travel to Old Trafford and get some minutes.
Kroupi has since provided an assist in Bournemouth's 2-0 win over Leeds, further highlighting his return to action after a lengthy absence.
Rose’s view of Bournemouth’s 13-goal forward
Kroupi's performances last season help explain why Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring his progress. He scored 13 goals in 33 Premier League appearances during his first full season in the competition.
Rose has been impressed by the youngster's contribution, describing him as “a special player” and praising his attitude.
“He has a good attitude,” the Bournemouth manager said, adding that Kroupi brings more intensity to the team's training sessions.
The forward has also been dubbed “the new Mbappe” in previous reports. MARCA reported in November 2025 that some scouts had compared his explosiveness to Kylian Mbappe and his finishing to Sergio Aguero.
What stands between Arsenal and a January deal
Bournemouth's reported reluctance to sell is a major obstacle for either interested club. The Cherries are said to be adamant that Kroupi will not leave in January, despite enquiries from Arsenal and Manchester United.
His contract situation strengthens Bournemouth's negotiating position, with reported valuations ranging from £80 million to more than £100 million. Another report suggests an offer of at least €120 million would be needed to open formal negotiations.
None of these figures has been officially confirmed. Kroupi has previously outlined his ambition to play at the highest level, saying he wants to “play for the biggest clubs in the world”.
However, he also pledged to give everything for Bournemouth and their supporters, offering no clear indication that he is pushing for a January departure.
For now, Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring the situation, but Bournemouth's stance and Kroupi's long-term contract make an immediate move difficult.
