Liverpool target rejects World Cup call-up
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Liverpool target has turned down a World Cup call-up. Eli Junior Kroupi, a reported Liverpool target, has rejected a World Cup call-up for Portugal as he remains focused on representing France at international level.The 19-year-old has enjoyed a standout season with Bournemouth, scoring 12 goals in 31 appearances, attracting interest from several clubs across Europe.His form had put him in contention for a Portugal call-up due to eligibility through his Portuguese heritage, but Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez confirmed the striker turned down the opportunity.Martinez revealed that while the Portuguese Football Federation had shown interest, Kroupi declined the approach in favour of continuing his international pathway with France.“Before the March training camp, we approached him.
But one thing is accompanying players who can wear the Portugal shirt, another is the player’s willingness,” Martinez told reporters. “And in this case, Junior wanted to represent France, so we respect that.”If he is to break into the France setup, Kroupi would face strong competition from players such as Désiré Doué, Bradley Barcola, Michael Olise, Rayan Cherki and Ousmane Dembélé.Meanwhile, Bournemouth chief executive Tiago Pinto has told clubs to forget about signing the young forward, with no release clause included in the contract he signed after joining from Lorient for £10m in February last year.That gives Bournemouth full control over his future, with talks over an improved deal expected following his impressive debut season.A transfer is not anticipated before 2027, and any eventual fee could rise above £100m if his development continues at its current rate.“Junior Kroupi will not be leaving Bournemouth.
His contract still has more than four years remaining, there is no release clause, and he’s not going anywhere,” he told 365scores.“We will not sell Kroupi even if Barcelona or Liverpool offer 100 million euros. That is completely out of the question.” Bournemouth Eli Kroupi Jr france Portugal world cup