Arsenal have received a boost in their pursuit of Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi, with a new player assessment suggesting that the highly rated youngster could eventually become a better player than Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres.

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Monday, October 19, 2026, Arsenal continue to monitor the 20-year-old following his impressive goalscoring displays last season, despite his ongoing recovery from a serious foot injury sustained during pre-season.

Kroupi has yet to make a competitive appearance this campaign but has returned to on-pitch training. Bournemouth manager Marco Rose previously suggested that the forward could be available again within a few weeks.

The French attacker scored 13 goals in fewer than 1,700 minutes last season, attracting interest from several prominent European clubs.

Arsenal and Barcelona were among the sides reportedly monitoring his progress. However, Bournemouth's reluctance to sell, combined with the player's injury, prevented a transfer from materialising during the summer window.

Arsenal's interest could grow stronger in 2027 as manager Mikel Arteta considers adding more firepower to his attacking options. Gyökeres has reportedly struggled with his reduced role this season, prompting questions about his long-term future at the Emirates Stadium.

Kroupi has consequently emerged as a possible alternative, although Bournemouth could demand a transfer fee of approximately €100 million if he recovers fully and continues developing at his previous rate.

According to player-analysis company SciSports, Kroupi has been the most improved player in world football in 2026 among those who meet its specified performance-rating criteria.

His SciSkill rating has risen by 19.2 points over the past six months and 25.3 points over the last year, demonstrating the significant progress he has made.

Only Real Madrid striker Carlos Espi recorded an equivalent improvement over the six-month period, while Sevilla forward Robbie Ure registered a 17.6-point increase.

The assessment also highlights Kroupi's considerable potential to develop beyond Arsenal's current attacking options.

SciSports believes the Bournemouth forward could eventually outperform both Havertz and Gyökeres, with the possibility of reaching that level within the next 18 months if his development continues at its current pace.

Nevertheless, his recovery from injury remains a crucial factor. Kroupi will need sufficient time to regain full match fitness and reproduce the performances that attracted interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.