Man Utd & Arsenal hold talks to sign Eli Junior Kroupi

Manchester United and Arsenal have reportedly held talks over a deal to sign AFC Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi, as per TEAMtalk.

The Red Devils currently have Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee as striker options. However, the Dutchman has struggled to find his feet in the Premier League since joining from Bologna and has found himself on the periphery under Michael Carrick.

On the other hand, Sesko showed glimpses of his qualities last term but has been struggling with a persistent shin problem in recent months. He is expected to remain sidelined until January due to his latest problem.

As a result, Carrick has been forced to deploy Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha in the striker position, although they like to be deployed on the flanks.

Now, TEAMtalk state that Man Utd are planning to strengthen the striker position and have earmarked Kroupi as a serious option. They have already made contact to learn about the details of signing him.

After returning from his foot injury, Kroupi has started attracting a lot of attention, with Arsenal also enquiring about him. Tottenham Hotspur registered a firm interest in him last summer but ultimately decided not to make a move following his injury.

However, they have continued to show interest in him. Moreover, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Barcelona have also been keeping a close eye on the forward.

Battle

With the player’s existing deal set to run until 2030, Bournemouth are in a strong position to demand a big fee if they are forced to cash-in on Kroupi, valued at around £58m by Transfermarkt.

After moving to Vitality Stadium from Lorient, the 20-year-old showed glimpses of his high potential in his debut campaign in the Premier League last term, scoring 13 goals.

Following Gabriel Jesus’ departure, Arsenal currently have Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz as striker options. However, Gyokeres has displayed inconsistent performances in the Premier League, while Havertz has also struggled with consistency.

Therefore, Mikel Arteta is seemingly planning to purchase a new prolific striker. Kroupi is a talented player and possesses high potential. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal or Man Utd should either club purchase him.