Manchester United reportedly dispatched scouts to watch 19-year-old French attacking sensation Eli Junior Kroupi this past weekend in the game between Newcastle United and Bournemouth.
A report by TEAMtalk has revealed that Manchester United recently scouted Eli Junior Kroupi in the Premier League game between Newcastle United and Bournemouth at St. James’ Park. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are also keen on signing the 19-year-old striker. However, they may have fallen behind Manchester United in the battle for the youngster’s signature, as a report by Football Insider has revealed that he is open to moving to Old Trafford.
Eli Junior Kroupi and his breakthrough in the Premier League
Eli Junior Kroupi has established himself as one of the best young prospects in the Premier League since joining Bournemouth from FC Lorient. The Premier League club initially signed the Frenchman on loan in February 2025 before completing a permanent move in the subsequent summer transfer window.
While the 19-year-old was slow off the blocks, he has been impressive in the 2025/26 campaign despite not being an undisputed first-choice starter. Kroupi has scored ten goals in only 1,312 minutes of game time in 28 Premier League outings this term. The French striker’s exploits have piqued the attention of high-profile clubs, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
A man in demand
Arsenal may dip into the market for a striker in the coming months, as Gabriel Jesus faces an uncertain future at the Emirates. Additionally, Viktor Gyokeres has not been consistent enough in his debut season at the North London club, and he started the crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City on the bench. So, Kroupi is a viable target for Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s interest in Eli Junior Kroupi is somewhat baffling. While Liam Delap has failed to make his mark this season (only one Premier League goal scored thus far), the Blues are set to welcome Emmanuel Emegha ahead of the 2026/27 season. So, Kroupi does not fit into the scheme of things at Chelsea, as Liam Rosenior will have multiple strikers in his squad this summer.
As for Liverpool, the Reds are combing the market for a versatile attacker after losing Hugo Ekitike to a long-term achilles injury. So, Alexander Isak is the only other striker in Arne Slot’s squad, and Liverpool must pursue a new striker, as Isak’s ability to play multiple games in a week is uncertain.
Meanwhile, Manchester United may pursue a striker this summer amid uncertainties surrounding Joshua Zirkzee’s long-term future. So, Kroupi has emerged as a viable target for the Red Devils, and their scouts came back with glowing reports after watching him in the Premier League this past weekend.
With the 19-year-old Frenchman open to joining Manchester United, the Red Devils should fancy their prospects. However, it will be surprising to see Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool throw in the towel easily despite the latest updates.