Vasilije Kostov
Vasilije Kostov celebrates scoring for Red Star Belgrade (Image: Getty)
Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund are set to send scouts to Sweden tonight to watch Red Star Belgrade's 17-year-old midfield sensation Vasilije Kostov in action against Malmo in the Europa League. The promising Serbian international has already earned his first cap for his country after a remarkable breakthrough season at home, scoring six goals in 24 appearances across all competitions.
Kostov, who has already scored against Portuguese heavyweights Porto in Europe, has been labelled both the 'Balkan Barella' and the 'Serbian Pedri' due to his impressive technical skills. In an exclusive interview with Mirror Football, Red Star Belgrade's general director Zvezdan Terzic confirmed that there is already substantial interest in the young player as the competition for his signature heats up.
He stated: "I can't talk about exactly who has called but we have already received an offer worth €20million (£17.45m) for him."
When asked if he believes Kostov has what it takes to play in the Premier League, Terzic responded: "Of course but not just any team, he could play for one of the big six clubs."
Bayern Munich are just one of many teams that have reached out to Red Star Belgrade to make enquiries.
The identity of the bidder remains unknown, but Arsenal are keeping tabs on the player and intend to compile a comprehensive scouting report for further evaluation.
The Gunners are keen to inject more funds into their youth development as Mikel Arteta now commands one of the finest squads in global football.
Vasilije Kostov
Vasilije Kostov has scored six goals this season (Image: Getty)
In recent times, Arsenal have secured deals for Ecuadorian twins Edwin and Holger Quintero, who will join in August 2027 when they turn 18, and Shamrock Rovers midfielder Victor Ozhianvuna, who is set to arrive next January.
Mirror Football reported earlier this week that the club is among a host of top European outfits monitoring 17 year old Brazilian prodigy Rafael Belinho, who currently plays in Croatia and is also being pursued by Dortmund, Barcelona and Manchester United.
It's anticipated that Kostov will stay with Red Star Belgrade until the summer before seeking a new challenge, with a January transfer seemingly ruled out.
Former Derby midfielder Timi Max Elsnik spoke highly of his team-mate, stating: "He is already very good and can be a player for the top level if he keeps progressing and developing."
Red Star Belgrade's academy is widely respected across Europe and has generated significant revenue through player sales in recent years.
Last summer, Bournemouth snapped up centre-back Veljko Milosavljevic for £13m, while RB Leipzig secured the services of midfielder Andrija Maksimovic.
Before that, Aston Villa also brought in full-back Kosta Nedeljkovic (presently on loan at Leipzig) for approximately £8m plus add-ons in January 2024.
There have been further departures as well, including players not developed through the academy. Centre-back Nasser Djiga transferred to Wolves last January, but things haven't gone to plan at Molineux and he's now on loan at Rangers.