The summer window is barely creaking open and already the big beasts are circling. GoalZaza can reveal that Arsenal have picked up the phone and diall...
The summer window is barely creaking open and already the big beasts are circling. GoalZaza can reveal that Arsenal have picked up the phone and dialled Bournemouth directly. Mikel Arteta and his new sporting director Andrea Berta are serious about bringing Eli Junior Kroupi to north London. This is no idle scouting mission.The 13 goal striker has been turning heads on the south coast with his blend of raw power and clever movement off the ball. He is not just a penalty box poacher. Kroupi thrives on the half turn, dropping into the pockets and then bursting beyond the last defender with a startling turn of pace. For a side like Arsenal that often faces a low block, that kind of threat in transitional play could be gold dust.Manchester City have also made their own enquiries. Because of course they have. When Pep Guardiola sniffs potential in a young forward, you can bet the checkbook is close behind. And let's not forget Paris Saint Germain are lurking in the shadows, as is their habit with any French talent of note. The competition is stiff, but Arsenal have moved first and that counts for something in this game of high stakes poker.What is interesting is the timing. Arteta has been crying out for a clinical finisher who can offer a different dimension to Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah. Is Kroupi that man The numbers suggest he has the nose for goal, but the Premier League is a different beast. He would need time to adapt. But if Arsenal believe they can mould him into a consistent 20 goal a season forward, then this is a bet worth taking.For now, the ball is in Bournemouth's court. But with Arsenal having already called, the machine is in motion. Watch this space.
