Arsenal are on the verge of completing a significant coup in the transfer market, closing in on the signing of highly-rated 17-year-old Serbian talent Vasilije Kostov from Red Star Belgrade.
According to Serbian outlet Sportinjo, the Gunners have emerged as frontrunners ahead of Borussia Dortmund and are nearing an agreement that could reach €20 million including add-ons. The deal is structured around an initial fee of €12 million (£10.4 million), with performance-related clauses potentially pushing the total value up to €20 million (£17.3 million).
Red Star are reportedly keen to sell the youngster to a prestigious club in one of Europe’s top leagues, both for financial reasons and to enhance their own reputation. Kostov himself is understood to be eager for the move to a bigger stage, and with negotiations advancing smoothly, a deal could be finalised in the coming days — barring any late, higher bids from rival clubs.
A Rapidly Rising Star
Kostov’s performances this season have been nothing short of sensational. The teenager has registered 14 goals and seven assists in 42 appearances for Red Star, delivering a goal contribution every 139 minutes on average. His ability to influence matches at such a young age has caught the eye of several elite clubs.
One of his standout moments came in October when he scored a crucial equaliser away to FC Porto in the Champions League. He also found the net in the game against Malmö that Arsenal scouts attended, underlining why the Gunners have maintained a keen interest over recent months.
Domestically, Kostov was instrumental in Red Star’s league title success. A prolific six-game streak of goals and assists in February and March provided vital momentum as his side powered to the championship.
International Recognition
Kostov’s talent has not gone unnoticed at international level either. He made his senior debut for Serbia in October against Albania and was recalled to the senior squad in March. Between those call-ups, he continued to impress with the U19 side, scoring in November. With Serbia narrowly missing out on the 2026 World Cup play-offs, the young forward will have a clear summer to focus on his club transition.
Why This Move Makes Sense for Arsenal
At just 17, Kostov represents the type of high-upside, long-term investment Arsenal have successfully pursued in recent windows. His technical quality, goal-scoring instinct, and composure on the big stage suggest a player with the potential to develop into a key figure at the Emirates.
While details remain to be finalised, the momentum is firmly with Arsenal. Sportinjo’s report indicates that only a dramatic last-minute intervention from another club is likely to derail the transfer.
For Arsenal fans, this emerging deal signals another exciting addition to a squad that continues to blend youthful dynamism with established quality. Vasilije Kostov could soon be the latest Serbian talent lighting up the Premier League.