Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing successful foot surgery, ruling him out for up to four months. The 20-year-old, who scored 13 Premier League goals last season, sustained the injury during pre-season training in Austria.
Injury and recovery timeline
According to a club statement on Wednesday, the procedure went to plan and Kroupi will now begin rehabilitation with Bournemouth's medical staff. Reports indicate he could be out until around Christmas, effectively ending any chance of a summer move.
Transfer implications
The French striker was a top target for Arsenal, Tottenham and Barcelona after his impressive debut campaign. However, his prolonged absence makes a transfer highly unlikely in the current window.
Bournemouth also face interest in playmaker Alex Scott from Chelsea, but new manager Marco Rose will be keen to keep his squad intact as the club prepares for its first-ever European campaign, having finished sixth in the Premier League last season to qualify for the Europa League.
Club statement
“AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Junior Kroupi has undergone successful surgery after sustaining a foot injury during a pre-season training session in Austria,” the club said. “The 20-year-old returned to the UK earlier this week to undergo the procedure and will consequently face a spell on the sidelines. Junior will now be supported by the club's medical and performance staff as he begins a period of rehabilitation. Everyone at AFC Bournemouth extends their best wishes to Junior and looks forward to seeing him back on the pitch.”
