Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Sat 4 April 2026 7:10, UK

Aston Villa could step up efforts to sign Eli Junior Kroupi from Bournemouth in the summer.

The Villans have had their fair share of attacking issues this campaign as Ollie Watkins continues to struggle in front of goal.

That hasn’t been helped by the introduction of Tammy Abraham, who has struggled for minutes ever since moving to B6 in January.

Neither have set the Premier League alight, and that could prompt new options to be targeted when the window opens at the end of the season.

Kroupi could be on the radar of Aston Villa should they look to add a new star number nine to their ranks.

Aston Villa looking at Eli Junior Kroupi signing

It hasn’t been an ideal campaign for Watkins, who hasn’t been anything like his best for whatever reason.

The striker has been dropped from the England squad by Thomas Tuchel, with his numbers showcasing his major drop-off.

A replacement signing could be necessary in the summer window if the claret and blue outfit are to secure Champions League qualification.

Former Villa scout Bryan King has put forward Bournemouth star Kroupi after an excellent start to life in the Premier League this campaign.

Speaking exclusively to Villa News, King said: “Bournemouth seem to go and find centre-forwards like him, players who are hungry and want to score goals.

“They can find them for a reasonable price and will sell them on for a profit.

“He has achieved great things this season, and he is difficult to play against.

“If Villa want to keep pushing up the Premier League, they’ll be running the eye over Kroupi and asking what he costs.

“He could be compatible with Abraham, if you are thinking Watkins could leave.”

Should Watkins be moved on by Villa, the Frenchman may prove to be a perfect option for the present and the future.

What could Kroupi bring to Aston Villa?

The 19-year-old is up there with one of the most exciting striker prospects in the division, having already netted nine in just 14 Premier League starts.

His game is based around his ability to get on the ball and hold it up, while also being a willing runner in behind defences.

Kroupi has been an expert finisher and isn’t afraid to let one rip from range, something that could make him well-suited to the Villans.

An average of 2.64 shots, 0.70 goals and 1.47 chances created per 90 are all promising, especially at 19 in a new league for the first time.

All this could make him an excellent asset under Unai Emery, but it would totally come down to the cost and what the B6 outfit could afford.