Bournemouth striker Junior Kroupi celebrates and smiles
Junior Kroupi has returnedImago
Correspondent AUTHORITY NCTJ-qualified football journalist with experience at VAVEL, Hayters TV, SPORTbible, and Centredevils. FOCUS Premier League analysis, tactical deep-dives, and original opinion content across Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Celtic. THE INSIGHT Evan utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides specialist tactical and analytical content to ensure fans get beyond the headlines and understand the full picture.
The 20-year-old had been the subject of significant interest leading up to the summer transfer window, but stayed put after suffering a foot injury in pre-season.
He netted 13 goals in his debut Premier League season and remains among the most exciting forwards in Europe.
Goals from Evanilson and Amine Adli secured the three points for the Cherries, who have now won six consecutive games without conceding a goal.
Junior Kroupi is back in action
Kroupi made his return last week against Manchester United, appearing for just a few minutes at the end of the game.
Kroupi was handed 22 minutes on the pitch and made full use of them, terrorising the Leeds defenders with his every touch.
The striker sealed the deal with a stunning no-look assist that was threaded through three defenders to find Adli, and that just one of two chances he created.
The France youth international completed three successful dribbles - the joint-most of anybody - and won four of five ground duels.
Kroupi made a tackle and three clearances, too, in a performance that reignited excitement surrounding the youngster.
Could Arsenal sign Kroupi in January?
It would not be easy for Arsenal to pull off a move for Kroupi in January, as much as their attack needs him.
The forward has another three and a half years remaining on his contract and no apparent release clause.
Bournemouth have become far stiffer sellers in recent years, with Chelsea expected to have to pay nearly £90million for Alex Scott, who will have one year remaining next summer.
And that is not to mention the competition, which is expected to include financial heavyweights, PSG.
Kroupi is an in-demand man, and Arsenal may have to find the right time if they are to land him.