Arsenal are keeping a close watch on Red Star Belgrade teenager Vasilije Kostov, with Bayern Munich and Barcelona also monitoring his situation.
The 17-year-old has emerged as a serious transfer target following his transition from youth football into Red Star’s senior side, where he has already started to make an impression in both domestic and continental competitions. Sources close to the Serbian champions are indicating that representatives from several top clubs have been present at matches this season, with Arsenal among those regularly updated on his performances.
Kostov’s name began circulating more widely last season after a standout moment in the UEFA Youth League, when he converted a Panenka penalty against Barcelona. That appearance was followed by steady progression at club level, eventually earning him his first team debut in April.
This season, the Belgrade-born midfielder has continued to feature across the Serbian SuperLiga and the Europa League. He has returned six goals and five assists from 24 appearances in all competitions, including a well-taken half volley away to Porto in October.
Arsenal’s interest is understood to be part of a longer term monitoring, with the Premier League side focused on tracking his development as he gains more experience at senior level. Bayern Munich and Barcelona are also believed to be following a similar path, keeping regular reports on his progress.
The comparison to Pedri has emerged from Spain, where observers have pointed to Kostov’s comfort on the ball, awareness of space and ability to influence play in tight areas.
