Liverpool risk losing £69m breakout star to Manchester City | OneFootball

Liverpool need strikers.

All the recent indications are that Richard Hughes - the Premier League champions’ sporting director - will make a move for a new frontman in the summer window.

With Hugo Ekitike out injured - perhaps for up to a year - and Alexander Isak’s fitness not the most reliable - the Reds need additional quality up top.

There are other priorities elsewhere to improve the squad this summer - including centre-back and on the wings - meaning a big budget is not likely to be available for a new No9.

Instead that means Arne Slot’s side are going to seek a bargain or even a loan transfer in the upcoming window. That in turn creates a huge risk that potential Liverpool signings move elsewhere.

Man City want to steal Eli Junior Kroupi

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The Bournemouth teenager signed for the Cherries from Lorient last summer and has been an immediate hit. The Frenchman has scored 11 Premier League goals - leading to links with more established clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid.

But with Liverpool not desiring to pay a big fee for a new striker it opens the door for rival bids - and Manchester City are now seeking to take advantage.

Having snared Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo in January Pep Guardiola’s side are now preparing to nick a third signing in a row from under Liverpool’s noses.

That’s according to a new report in Sky Sports Switzerland which claims City’s sporting director has already met with Kroupi’s entourage over a £69m deal.

Kroupi agents meet with Hugo Viana

“The player's agent recently met with Hugo Viana,” the report reads.

“So far, no official contact has been made with AFC Bournemouth, who are determined to keep their prized player.

“The English club is standing firm and has reportedly set a starting price of at least €80 million for any transfer.

Eli Junior Kroupi: Situation summary

Eli Junior Kroupi has gone from smart future bet to immediate headline act for Bournemouth, emerging as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous young finishers.

Signed from Lorient and initially expected to be eased in, he has instead played his way into being a regular attacking reference point in his first season.

He profiles as a penalty‑box forward who can drift wide: sharp movement on the last line, quick adjustments in tight spaces and calm, early finishing rather than wild volume.

Those habits have turned half‑chances into important goals in a Bournemouth side that still doesn’t create like the elite.