football.london spoke to former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere who believes transfer target Junior Kroupi is perfect for The Gunners
Junior Kroupi has the “whole package” as Arsenal look for a new forward player to reinforce their goalscoring options. The Bournemouth surprise package notched 13 Premier League goals last season, his final strike handing The Gunners the league title after stunning Manchester City.
Former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere has plenty in common with the 19-year-old, including having played for the same side in France, and could not be more complimentary of the youngster. “I think Kroupi is a top player,” Aliadiere exclusively told football.london . “I’ve watched him as well, back when he was still playing for Lorient in France.
“I was following my old club and seeing that kid coming through, I know his Dad quite well because his Dad used to play for Lorient as well.
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“When I was at the club, he was coming around to watch us and be at training with us. He’s a fantastic player. There was talk about him maybe getting in the French squad.
“That just says it all at that age to be recognised by your French national team, and maybe having a chance to go to the World Cup is huge. But he’s had a fantastic season with Bournemouth.”
Despite the high praise, Aliadiere does have some questions about the move, and where Kroupi would fit into the Arsenal set up.
Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus all remain at the North London side, for now. The latter has been linked with a move away this summer, although Jesus’ high wages are believed to present a stumbling block to any transfer with one year left on his deal and no burning desire to depart North London.
The former Arsenal striker posited whether Kroupi’s versatility could see the Frenchman play with the existing options but admitted without a sale he has his doubts over the move.
“I know we’re linked with him, but would I see it happen? I’m not too sure. I think the beauty with Kroupi is he’s not a typical number nine. He’s a forward in my eyes. So he can play, he could even play behind Viktor or behind Kai or even as a winger.
“He could play on the left side and come in on his right foot. I think he’s shown this season that he’s got the whole package.
“So would they go for him without selling, maybe? I don’t know. Would that mean Kai might go, or would that mean other players might be on the go?
“I don’t, I personally don’t think we’ll buy Kroupi without selling. So, I’m not sure who would be the player making way. But, yeah, he’ll be a great addition to the team. Young player as well. I’ll be very excited to see him at the club.”
