Arsenal are reportedly considering a major January move for Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi as Mikel Arteta looks to add more firepower to his attack.
According to GOAL, the Gunners have identified the 20-year-old France youth international as a potential target and are seriously considering a move that could cost around £80 million.
Kroupi caught the attention of several clubs after an impressive first season in the Premier League. The young forward scored 13 goals for Bournemouth during the 2025/26 campaign and has continued to attract interest with his performances.
His form was also enough to earn him a nomination for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Men’s Young Talent of the Year award.
Arsenal are believed to be impressed by Kroupi’s technical ability and versatility. Although primarily an attacking player, he has experience operating in deeper areas and can drop between the lines to help build attacks.
That ability could make him an attractive option for Arteta, particularly with the manager looking for more flexibility in his forward line. Kroupi’s movement could also help create additional space for Arsenal’s wide players, including Bukayo Saka.
The Gunners have already seen major changes in attack, with Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus leaving the club during the summer. Adding another versatile forward could therefore become an important part of Arteta’s plans for the second half of the season.
However, Kroupi’s current injury could complicate any potential January move. The Bournemouth forward is recovering from a foot problem and is not expected to regain full match fitness until late October or sometime in November.
Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close eye on his recovery and could use the coming weeks to assess whether he returns to his best level before deciding whether to make a formal approach.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, are understood to value Kroupi at around £80 million. That price tag would make the youngster a significant investment, even for a club like Arsenal.
For now, the Gunners appear to be monitoring the situation rather than making a concrete offer. But if Kroupi returns from injury and continues where he left off, Arsenal could have a major decision to make when the January transfer window opens.
The next few months could therefore be crucial in determining whether Arsenal’s reported interest develops into a serious move for the Bournemouth star.
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