Florent Malouda tells Chelsea to sign Eli Junior Kroupi

Former Chelsea winger Florent Malouda has urged his old club to step up their pursuit of Eli Junior Kroupi, the highly rated 19-year-old forward currently starring at AFC Bournemouth, amid intensifying interest from Manchester City and other European clubs. The forward’s breakout Premier League season has sparked a summer race for his signature, with Chelsea now being encouraged to capitalise before City make a move.

Kroupi, who joined Bournemouth from FC Lorient last year, has quickly become one of English football’s most exciting young talents, scoring 11 goals in the Premier League appearances and becoming the first teenager to hit double figures in his debut top-flight season in over two decades.

Reports from transfer insiders suggest that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and his recruitment team are closely monitoring Kroupi’s impressive form, seeing the French forward as a potential addition to their attacking options this summer. According to sources, City would have to navigate Bournemouth’s high valuation — widely reported around £80 million — but have not ruled out pushing forward if they decide to strengthen their forward line.

Despite this interest from the Etihad, Malouda, who enjoyed a trophy-laden career with CHELSEA including the 2012 UEFA Champions League triumph, believes the Blues should look to “steal a march” on their Premier League rivals by launching a bid for Kroupi before City or other suitors assert themselves. Speaking to media, the former France international praised the young striker’s talent and potential, while also tempering expectations about his immediate readiness for life at a major club

‘He’s a very good talent,’ Malouda told Snabbare. ‘I played against his father, I remember, in France; he was an Ivory Coast international player.

‘He did very well last season, one of the top players in France, and I’m very happy to see him doing well this season.

‘Again, I believe he needs to confirm it for one more season, at least in the Premier League, before going into one of the big clubs because I mentioned the competitive aspect,’ he added.

‘They’re looking to get game time and the confidence that comes from that. He might not get it at a top club if he jumps too

‘So, I think he came to the Premier League to develop himself, to challenge himself, and he needs to keep doing that.

‘So, even if a club like CHELSEA were able to sign him, which would be a good thing, to send him on loan would be a better option than to keep him in the squad without game time.’

Recent reports also suggest that Bournemouth remain keen to retain Kroupi for now, protecting their prized asset under contract until June 2030 and resisting early advances until the summer transfer window formally opens.

As the 2025-26 Premier League season winds down, all eyes will be on Kroupi’s performances for Bournemouth and how closely his suitors — Chelsea included — are prepared to pursue what could be one of the summer’s most compelling young attacking talent

MORE BIG CHELSEA NEWS AND GOSSIP

Latest: Impressive boss sent message about joining Chelsea end of season!

Top Read: Boss ‘to create a team of warriors’ Chelsea told as Board encouraged to wrap up signing of top target

Most Read: Chelsea makes moves to sign 43-year old Premier League – summer move already confirmed

LOVE CHELSEA? CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND GOSSIP

Related