Chelsea are one Premier League club who are thought to be interested in signing Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi.
Last month, it was claimed that Chelsea are keen on Kroupi, and there have now been more reports reiterating that.
The Blues are expected to sign more experienced players this summer, but it is unlikely that they will abandon their whole transfer policy, meaning that Kroupi could still become a serious target. The Frenchman is 19 and turns 20 in June.
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Bournemouth tell Chelsea Eli Junior Kroupi isn’t for sale
Unfortunately for Chelsea, Kroupi does not look like he is going to be attainable in the upcoming transfer window.
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea have joined Arsenal and Manchester City in the race for Kroupi’s signature.
However, the same outlet states that Bournemouth are currently insisting that the teenager is not for sale.
This is only Kroupi’s first season playing in the Cherries’ first team, but it is not a surprise to see him attracting so much interest from some of England’s biggest clubs.
The France Under-21 international is having a fantastic campaign at the Vitality Stadium. It was his goal that helped Bournemouth to draw 1-1 with Manchester City on Tuesday and secure Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years.
Eli Junior Kroupi’s Premier League record in breakout campaign
Kroupi’s goal against City was his 13th in the Premier League this season, which is impressive for a teenager.
In total, the former Lorient player has made 32 appearances, meaning that he scores one goal every 2.46 games. Again, that is quite the achievement for such a young footballer.
Chelsea clearly need more ready-made players, but fans will probably not be too disappointed by the signing of Kroupi.
However, it seems as though the Blues and their Premier League rivals will have to wait until next year before they have the chance to sign him.
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