Arsenal are already planning ahead for the summer transfer window, and it looks like they have their sights set on a young forward who has already given them nightmares this season.
According to talkSPORT, the Gunners are among several top clubs tracking Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi. The 19-year-old has had a remarkable debut Premier League campaign, netting 11 league goals and becoming the first teenager to reach double figures in his maiden season in England's top flight.
What's really caught Mikel Arteta's attention? Kroupi scored both home and away against Arsenal this season. That kind of performance against a top side doesn't go unnoticed, especially when you're just 19 years old and already proving you can deliver on the big stage.
The France Under-21 international joined Bournemouth for a reported £10 million from their sister club Lorient last February, spending the rest of that season on loan back in France before making the move to the Premier League. His rapid development has since attracted interest from across the league, with Manchester United and Manchester City also reportedly keeping tabs on the talented teenager.
But here's the catch: sources suggest Kroupi doesn't have a release clause in his current contract. That puts Bournemouth in a strong position if the bidding war heats up this summer. For Arsenal, this move fits their recent strategy of targeting young, proven Premier League talent who can grow with the squad.
So, Gooners, what do you think? Is Eli Junior Kroupi the man to lead the line at the Emirates next season? With his eye for goal and experience against top opposition, he could be exactly what Arsenal needs to take the next step.
