Real Madrid has implemented a transfer strategy focused on signing the world's best young talent. There are expected to be more teenage prospects arrive at the Estadio Bernabeu this summer and beyond.
The La Liga giants have signed the likes of Endrick, 19, Franco Mastantuono, 18, and Arda Guler, 20, in recent windows. They are viewed as future superstars who have long careers in the Spanish capital ahead of them.
Madrid have plenty of attacking options which is why Endrick was sent out on loan to Lyon last month. But Los Blancos are now eyeing one of the Premier League's most highly-admired youngsters but reportedly face competition from Liverpool and Chelsea.
Real Madrid in race with Liverpool and Chelsea for Kroupi
Madrid have been tracking Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi who has caught the eye with several impressive displays in the Premier League. The France U21 international has bagged eight goals in 20 league appearances since returning to Andoni Iraola's side after a loan at FC Lorient.
The Sun reports that Los Blancos scouts have been sent to watch Kroupi regularly but that's also been the case for Chelsea. Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are also in the mix for the French starlet who has five years left on his contract.
Madrid were keen on the 19-year-old before Bournemouth won the race for his signature in early 2025. He spent the rest of the season at boyhood club Lorient but has made an instant impact for the Cherries.
The Premier League club believe he could become their first-ever £80m (€90m) player. They are preparing a new bumper-contract amid interest they have recieved for the teenage wonderkid.
Kroupi fits the profile for Madrid but isn't a necessity
Madrid's interest in Kroupi is understandable given his prolific form at Bournemouth. He looks the real deal and is already wreaking havoc in the Premier League at such a young age.
The club's scouts have clearly been impressed with what they've seen from the French youngster. But paying such a large fee for a striker when there are already several options in the current team seems a risk.
19-year-old Junior Kroupi has scored eight Premier League goals in just 744 minutes played this season 😲
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 31, 2026
One of the most promising young talents in Europe. pic.twitter.com/EVlEqZh1ci
Kylian Mbappe is still 27 and currently at his peak in front of goal while Gonzalo Garcia is playing backup to the Frenchman. The 21-year-old has shown glimpses of huge potential whenever given the chance and signing Kroupi could stunt his development.
Endrick is also set to return from his Lyon loan this summer and he will no doubt want to take up a central role in the future. These are all factors to take into consideration regarding swooping for the French teenager.