Arsenal retain an interest in Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi, although a move for the highly-rated teenager looks unlikely to materialise this summer.
According to journalist Sam Blitz, the Gunners remain admirers of the 19-year-old as they continue to assess potential additions to Mikel Arteta’s attacking options.
However, there are two significant obstacles standing in the way of a deal before the transfer window closes.
Bournemouth have made it clear that Kroupi is not for sale this summer, while the French forward is also expected to spend the next three to four months on the sidelines through injury.
Those circumstances make an immediate Arsenal move unlikely, but the club’s continued interest suggests Kroupi could remain a name to watch in the future.
The teenager is regarded as one of the most exciting young attacking talents around and has attracted attention following his emergence in English football.
His ability to operate across attacking positions could make him an appealing long-term option for Arsenal as the club continues to target young players with significant potential.
For now, though, Bournemouth appear determined to keep hold of him.
The Cherries’ stance combined with Kroupi’s injury means Arsenal would face considerable difficulties attempting to complete a deal during the current window.
It comes at a time when the Gunners are continuing to assess the attacking market.
Arsenal’s ambitious pursuit of Vinicius Junior now appears unlikely to succeed, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the Brazilian is closing in on a new long-term contract with Real Madrid.
That has placed increased attention on what Arsenal decide to do next as Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta consider alternative ways of strengthening the attack.
Kroupi appears to be one player who remains firmly on their radar, even if circumstances currently make a transfer difficult.
There is no suggestion at this stage that Arsenal have submitted an offer or entered negotiations with Bournemouth.
Instead, the Gunners are understood to retain an interest in the teenager while Bournemouth remain adamant that he will not be leaving.
With Kroupi also facing several months out through injury, a summer transfer currently looks unlikely.
But Arsenal’s admiration could make his situation one worth monitoring beyond the current window as the club continues planning for both the present and future.