BELGRADE/LONDON – The race to sign Europe’s next elite midfielder is heating up. Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund have reportedly sent scouts to Sweden to monitor Red Star Belgrade’s teenage sensation Vasilije Kostov.
According to Mirror Football, representatives from both giants were in attendance during Red Star’s clash against Malmö on Thursday. The 17-year-old Serbian did not disappoint, delivering a standout performance and netting a goal to further solidify his status as a “must-watch” talent.
Tactical Profile: Comparisons to Pedri and Barella Kostov’s rapid rise has not gone unnoticed by Europe’s top evaluators. Often compared to Barcelona’s Pedri and Inter Milan’s Nicolò Barella, the youngster is a creative force who excels at operating between the lines.
Known for his exceptional spatial awareness and composure under pressure, Kostov possesses a rare ability to dictate the tempo of a game. Whether playing as a deep-lying playmaker or a traditional number 10, his vision for vertical passes and quick “one-two” combinations makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Staggering Stats for a 17-Year-Old In his debut professional season, Kostov’s versatility has been a key asset for Red Star Belgrade. He has already featured as a defensive midfielder, attacking midfielder, and right winger, accumulating over 1,550 minutes across 25 matches.
With a balanced return of 7 goals and 5 assists, his productivity is remarkable for a player of his age. While Arsenal and Dortmund are currently leading the chase, Bayern Munich are also reportedly keeping a close watch on his development. With a contract running until June 2028, Red Star are in a strong position to demand a significant fee for their prized gem.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
