Manchester United are plotting a formal bid for Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi, with the Red Devils ready to test the Cherries’ resolve with a £43m offer including bonuses, according to Sports Boom.

A Record-Breaker From the Start

Kroupi’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. The French forward broke into senior football at Lorient aged just 16 years and 345 days, smashing the club’s record previously held by Matteo Guendouzi. He then became Lorient’s youngest-ever goalscorer and, in a 3–3 draw with Lyon, netted a brace — the youngest player to do so in Ligue 1 since 1974.

Lighting Up the Premier League

Since joining Bournemouth last summer, the 19-year-old has been nothing short of sensational. 12 Premier League goals in his debut campaign — including the opener against Arsenal — make him the youngest player to hit double figures in a debut top-flight season since Robbie Keane’s 12 goals for Coventry in 1999–00. Scouts from United reportedly watched him in recent matches against Leeds and Crystal Palace.

The Transfer Battle Ahead

Bournemouth won’t budge below £51–60m, meaning United’s opening bid falls well short. To make matters harder, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and PSG are all circling.

Verdict

With Joshua Zirkzee likely heading for the exit this summer, United desperately need a proven finisher. Kroupi ticks every box — young, hungry, and already Premier League-proven. Getting him won’t be cheap or easy, but he could be a generational signing.