21 year old striker Elie Kroupi had a trial with Norwich during the first week of September 2001. The Canaries decided not to further their interest nor in fellow triallist Louis Gomias. Kroupi was then with French side Lorient whom he helped win promotion with 21 goals. Kroupi is said to be an Ivory Coast international who after leaving Norwich had a trial with Southampton.

Elie begun his career with Rennes before joining Valence in 1998/99. He moved to Lorient during the 1999/2000 season.

In February 2002, the media speculated that Elie would be joining Leicester who confirmed that he had trialled at Filbert Street. However the French transfer window shut with no deal being arranged.

Career History

Season	Team	Appearances	Goals
1997/98	Rennes	2	0
1998/99	Valence	13	3
1999/00	Lorient	9	0
	Valence	15	4
2000/01	Lorient	33	15
2001/02	Lorient	22	2
2002/03	Lorient	32	12