Lyon plot bid to bring Bournemouth striker back to Ligue 1 already amid slow Premier League start following summer transfer

Lyon's management is already looking ahead to the winter transfer window with a target that is causing a stir in England. With only the ninth-best attack in Ligue 1 (seven goals scored in five games), Lyon lack offensive efficiency, especially following Mikautadze's move to Villarreal. The recent 1-0 win against Angers is a case in point: the team dominated but struggled to convert its chances. While fans are already dreaming of a top-four finish at the end of the current season, observers point out that this offensive weakness could hamper the team's European ambitions. An additional striker therefore seems essential for January.

According to reports by Jeunes Footeux, Fonseca has suggested a name to the club's management: Kroupi. Transferred to Bournemouth during the last summer transfer window for €13 million (£11m/$15m), the 19-year-old striker is discovering the Premier League but has seen very little playing time. In three league appearances, he has only accumulated 12 minutes of playing time. This situation could prompt him to seek a way out as early as this winter.

The former Lorient player is coming off an outstanding season in Ligue 2, scoring 22 goals in just 30 games. Voted the league's best player in 2024-25, he impressed with his consistency and maturity despite his young age. The French U21 international Kroupi remains highly-rated in France. Les Gones could try to secure a loan deal, which would be an attractive option financially. But competition is likely to be fierce, as other French clubs are already monitoring his situation.

Kroupi will be hoping that his head coach Andoni Iraola will give him a starting berth in Bournemouth's next game, which takes place on Saturday against Leeds United.

Additional reporting by Patrick Tchanhoun.