AFC Bournemouth are pushing to secure the signature of highly-rated French talent Eli Junior Kroupi, with negotiations ongoing with FC Lorient, according to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna.
The Premier League side is exploring a deal that would see the 18-year-old forward sign this January but remain on loan at Lorient until the end of the Ligue 2 campaign.
Both clubs, owned by American businessman Bill Foley, have a history of transfer dealings, including the €20m move for Dango Ouattara in 2023 and the more recent transfer of Romain Faivre last summer. A similar arrangement is now being discussed for Kroupi, as Lorient push for an immediate return to Ligue 1 following last season’s relegation.
Kroupi has been a standout performer this season, delivering on the promise he showed in his breakthrough Ligue 1 campaign. The teenager has netted eight goals in 16 Ligue 2 appearances while also providing two assists, further solidifying his reputation as one of France’s most exciting young talents.
