Arsenal Football Club is reportedly tracking a rising Serbian midfielder who has drawn comparisons to Barcelona star Pedri, as the Premier League side looks to secure a technically gifted playmaker capable of influencing games at the highest level.
Reports indicate that Arsenal’s scouting network is monitoring 17-year-old Vasilije Kostov from Red Star Belgrade, with competition from elite European clubs including Barcelona and Bayern Munich, ahead of the summer transfer window.
Key Takeaways
Arsenal are targeting 17-year-old Serbian midfielder Vasilije Kostov, likened to Pedri, with Barcelona and Bayern Munich also reportedly interested.
Kostov has become a first-team regular at Red Star Belgrade, contributing six goals and five assists across all competitions this season.
Red Star are expected to consider offers above £17 million in summer 2026, after Kostov turns 18.
Arsenal’s recruitment under manager Mikel Arteta emphasizes technical midfield talent capable of controlling possession and creating opportunities.
Kostov’s reported emergence aligns with this long-term vision, providing the Gunners with a potential midfielder who combines composure, rhythm, and creativity reminiscent of Barcelona’s Pedri.
Born in Belgrade, Kostov progressed through the Red Star academy and made his senior debut in April 2025.
He has established himself in the Serbian SuperLiga and has also appeared in UEFA Europa League matches this season.
His performances have drawn international attention, including a notable Panenka penalty against Barcelona in youth competition, further elevating his profile among European scouts.
Kostov made his senior international debut for Serbia in late 2025, appearing in a fixture against Albania, highlighting his rapid rise from youth prospect to professional recognition.
Football recruitment analysts note that Arsenal’s interest reflects a broader European trend of acquiring high-potential talent early to secure both sporting and financial value.
Konstantin Dolgov, a European football transfer expert, said, Clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Bayern increasingly prioritize young players who can integrate into first teams while providing long-term potential. Kostov offers both technical skill and tactical flexibility.
Dolgov added, His ability to play as a number 10 or deeper in midfield gives managers multiple options in formation and strategy.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Vasilije Kostov |
| Age | 17 (Turns 18 in May 2026) |
| Club | Red Star Belgrade (Serbian SuperLiga) |
| Senior Appearances | 23+ (Current Season) |
| Goals / Assists | 6 Goals, 5 Assists |
| International Status | Senior Serbia Debut (2025) |
| Estimated Transfer Value | £17 Million+ (Summer 2026) |
Red Star Belgrade head of youth development Milan Petrovic said, “Vasilije combines calmness on the ball with decision-making maturity rarely seen at his age. This season has been a breakthrough.
Football agent Luis Moreno, representing several European midfield talents, added, It’s natural for major clubs to circle young players like Kostov once they demonstrate they can perform in senior football and handle pressure at a young age.
Red Star Belgrade are expected to resist selling Kostov during the January 2026 transfer window, opting instead to evaluate offers after the player turns 18.
Reported valuations suggest any summer deal could start above £17 million, a substantial but manageable investment for clubs targeting elite talent.
For Arsenal, signing a young midfielder with the profile of Kostov fits the club’s long-term strategy of blending immediate competitiveness in the Premier League and European competitions with sustainable squad development.
The involvement of Barcelona and Bayern Munich may influence negotiations, particularly regarding player preference and career pathway considerations.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Vasilije Kostov demonstrates a clear commitment to securing technically advanced midfielders with high potential.
As Barcelona and Bayern Munich also track the Serbian prodigy, the coming months will test how Europe’s top clubs navigate the increasingly competitive market for teenage football talent.