Tottenham Hotspur’s summer transfer plans have suffered a major setback after Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi sustained a foot injury in preseason training. The 20-year-old Frenchman, who scored 13 Premier League goals last season, is now ruled out for three to four months following surgery, effectively ending Tottenham’s hopes of signing him this window. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 17th in Premier League, 41 pts, 10W-11D-17L from 38 games, recent form WLDWW.
What happened to Kroupi’s transfer?
Kroupi was Tottenham’s only linked striker target this summer, with manager Roberto De Zerbi and sporting director Johan Lange reportedly planning for the young Frenchman as their long-term No. 9. However, Bournemouth had already made it clear they would not sell their prized asset this summer, preferring to wait until 2027 when his value could rise to €150 million. The injury now removes any chance of a deal, leaving Spurs scrambling for alternatives.
Why does this matter for Tottenham?
Tottenham finished last season in 17th place, scoring just 48 goals while conceding 57, leaving them 44 points behind league leaders Arsenal. With Richarlison and Dominic Solanke as their only senior strikers, Spurs desperately need a proven goalscorer to lead the line. Kroupi’s absence from the market leaves them with few options just weeks before the transfer window closes.
What’s next for Spurs?
With Kroupi out of the picture, Tottenham must now turn their attention to other targets. The club has already made a formal approach for Manchester City’s Savinho, but they still need a traditional No. 9. De Zerbi and Lange will have to act quickly to avoid another season of struggling for goals, especially with the new Premier League campaign approaching.
