BOURNEMOUTH RULE OUT JANUARY KROUPI SALE

Bournemouth have ruled out selling Eli Junior Kroupi in January after Arsenal and Manchester United made enquiries about the forward. The two clubs have asked about his fitness and current situation following a foot injury. Kroupi made his season debut as a late substitute in Bournemouth’s 3-0 win over Manchester United at the weekend. He underwent surgery after sustaining a metatarsal injury during pre-season. Arsenal had shown interest before the injury interrupted the start of his campaign.

Kroupi scored 13 Premier League goals in his first season in English football. Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur pursued him during the summer, before his injury halted the prospect of a move. Tottenham were prepared to consider a club-record offer for him. Bournemouth told Arsenal in May that Kroupi was not for sale, with his valuation believed to exceed £100 million. Arsenal then explored other attacking options.

Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Chelsea and Tottenham remain interested in Kroupi following his return to action. The coming months will give interested clubs a chance to assess his form and fitness ahead of the January transfer window. Arsenal face Liverpool away on Sunday and sit second in the Premier League, behind Manchester City on goal difference. Arsenal exited the Carabao Cup on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Fleetwood Town on Tuesday. Max Dowman received a red card during that match.