June 6, 2026

The African Tribune

Bold, independent reporting on Africa's most important stories, in English, every day.

Psg’s risky wait on eli junior kroupi as european giants circle

Fresh off a historic back-to-back Champions League triumph, Paris Saint-Germain are already plotting their next move to secure a historic treble. Yet the club’s hesitant approach to signing Ivorian striker Eli Junior Kroupi could backfire spectacularly. With attacking reinforcements a top priority, the 19-year-old’s name has risen to the top of PSG’s wishlist—but time is running out.

PSG striker in action during a match

PSG’s delayed pursuit of Kroupi risks losing their target

After another grueling domestic campaign, PSG are desperate to add firepower up front for their Champions League defense and potential domestic treble bid. The spotlight has fallen on Eli Junior Kroupi, whose breakthrough season at Bournemouth yielded 13 Premier League goals at just 19 years old. Despite his standout performances, PSG have yet to make a concrete offer, while rival European heavyweights have already stepped up their efforts. If Paris continue to drag their feet, the young striker may slip through their fingers.

With Bradley Barcola potentially departing for Liverpool and Gonçalo Ramos and Kang-in Lee also on the move, PSG’s attack is facing a significant reshuffle. Luis Campos, the club’s sporting director, has identified Kroupi as a key target, but inaction could prove costly. The Ivorian’s blend of pace, technical skill, and clinical finishing makes him a perfect fit for Thomas Tuchel’s system—if PSG act fast enough.

Batrakov transfer falls off the radar

Rumors of a potential deal for Russian midfield dynamo Alexey Batrakov had gained traction recently, with some outlets suggesting a transfer was imminent. However, those talks have now reportedly stalled, with PSG reportedly shifting their focus entirely toward Kroupi. The decision to abandon the Batrakov pursuit signals a clear shift in strategy, one that now hinges on securing the young Ivorian’s signature.

As the transfer window heats up, PSG’s window of opportunity to land Kroupi is narrowing. With elite clubs across Europe circling, the stakes have never been higher. Can Paris afford to gamble on inaction, or will their delayed pursuit cost them dearly?