Man United eyeing Eli Junior Kroupi but decision on his transfer this summer already made | OneFootball

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Manchester United are hoping for a blockbuster end to the summer transfer window after focusing mostly on midfield so far. The Red Devils signed Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba to bolster the middle of the park, while Karl Darlow arrived on a free transfer to provide cover for Senne Lammens.

However, the English giants are hardly done yet, with a new left-back also emerging as a priority. With Patrick Dorgu now operating in an advanced role and Harry Amass expected to leave, INEOS are looking for more cover for Luke Shaw.

A new forward also remains on the agenda, even though United scored five goals against Ipswich Town on Sunday, 30 August, in the Premier League. The Red Devils are competing in the Champions League this season and could do with more options in attack.

The English giants have shown a preference for Premier League-proven candidates to bolster their attack of late. One player who suits their requirements and has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for a while is Eli Junior Kroupi.

Kroupi is proven in the Premier League

Kroupi rose through the ranks at Lorient and broke into the senior side in 2023, before Bournemouth came calling for his services two years later. Last season, the 20 year old registered 13 goals in 35 games for the Cherries.

Eli Junior Kroupi Stats: 2025/26 Season

Fast and clinical in front of goal, Kroupi fits the age profile of players the Red Devils have shown a preference for in recent years. The Frenchman’s intelligent movement, off-the-ball pressing and ability to carry out various roles in attack also make him a fine fit in Michael Carrick’s tactics.

However, a move is unlikely this summer after Kroupi had to undergo surgery to address a fractured metatarsal suffered during Bournemouth’s pre-season camp. Nevertheless, that has not stopped the Red Devils from keeping him under close watch.

United are monitoring Kroupi

According to Caught Offside, United have their eyes on Kroupi but are wary of the player’s fitness situation. The report states: “Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Arsenal view Kroupi as a long-term attacking target rather than an immediate signing.”

“Liverpool and Manchester United have also made enquiries over his availability, but all three clubs are understood to be cautious about committing a huge fee while the striker remains sidelined.”

Recent reports suggest that Kroupi could be sidelined for as much as four months. The Cherries, meanwhile, consider the player a key part of their plans and have no desire to let him leave either.

Kroupi is under contract at the Vitality Stadium until 2030, so Bournemouth are under no pressure to let him go.

Final Thoughts

Kroupi could have been a fantastic addition to the squad, but his fitness situation is likely to be a dealbreaker. United need a new striker before the end of the summer, which could all but rule out the Frenchman.

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✅ United have previously been linked with Eli Junior Kroupi. ⚠️ Source is not particularly reliable for United news ⚠️ No official confirmation from club.