Arsenal Scouting “Balkan Barella” Following Europa League Heroics
BELGRADE – The race for Europe’s most coveted teenage talent has intensified. Following his match-winning performance in Sweden, reports confirm that Arsenal has stepped up its pursuit of Crvena Zvezda’s 17-year-old sensation, Vasilije Kostov.
The Gunners reportedly sent a specialized scouting delegation to the Eleda Stadion last Thursday to witness Kostov secure a 1-0 victory over Malmö. The youngster’s 16th-minute strike did more than just guarantee Zvezda a spot in the Europa League knockout rounds; it served as a definitive “statement of intent” to the elite clubs circling the Marakana.
The “Serbian Pedri” on the Global Stage
Kostov, who has earned the nicknames “Balkan Barella” and “Serbian Pedri” for his press-resistant style and vision, has become the focal point of the January transfer window. Despite his age, he has already established himself as a pillar of Dejan Stanković’s midfield, tallying 6 goals and 5 assists this season.
Crvena Zvezda’s General Director, Zvezdan Terzić, recently fueled the fire by revealing the scale of interest in the academy graduate.
“I cannot disclose the specific names, but we have already received a formal offer in the region of €20 million (£17.45 million) for Vasilije,” Terzić stated. “He is a player who belongs at one of the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ clubs.”
Arsenal’s Youth Revolution
Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has shifted heavily toward securing “generational” prospects before their market value becomes unreachable. Having recently secured deals for South American talents like the Quintero twins, the North London club views Kostov as a high-priority addition to their midfield pipeline.
However, the Gunners face stiff competition. Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich are also understood to have held informal talks with the Belgrade hierarchy.
Transfer Obstacles
While Arsenal is “keeping a close eye,” a January move remains complicated. Due to post-Brexit regulations, Kostov cannot officially join a Premier League side until he turns 18 on May 11, 2026. This likely points toward a “summer swoop,” where Arsenal could agree to a fee now to beat out European rivals, allowing the player to finish the season in Serbia.
For now, Kostov remains focused on the pitch. He is expected to lead the line once again this Thursday as Crvena Zvezda hosts Celta Vigo in their final Europa League group stage match.
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