Arsenal's quest to strengthen their squad this January has taken two intriguing turns, with the Gunners linked to a teenage sensation compared to Barcelona's Pedri, while also facing the prospect of missing out on a defensive target to a London rival.
Gunners Join Race for Serbian 'New Pedri'
Mikel Arteta's recruitment team have reportedly set their sights on one of Europe's most exciting young midfield talents, 17-year-old Vasilije Kostov of Red Star Belgrade. The Serbian prodigy has drawn comparisons to Barcelona and Spain star Pedri due to his elegant style of play and technical prowess.
Kostov first captured significant attention with a bold 'Panenka' penalty against Barcelona in a UEFA Youth League match last year. Since then, his rapid development has been marked by a first-team debut in April 2025 and his establishment as a regular for Red Star in both the Serbian SuperLiga and the Europa League. His performances have already earned him a call-up to the senior Serbian national team.
According to reports, Arsenal face stiff competition for his signature, with European heavyweights Bayern Munich and Barcelona also credited with an interest. It is believed Bayern have already made an initial enquiry for the player, who turns 18 in May.
Red Star Belgrade are said to have no intention of selling Kostov this month but could be open to a transfer in the summer. A potential fee in the region of £17 million has been suggested for the highly-rated midfielder.
Chelsea Poised to Snatch Defensive Target
In a separate development, Arsenal look set to be beaten by Chelsea in the pursuit of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet. The 20-year-old France under-21 international has been on the Gunners' radar, with sporting director Edu Gaspar reportedly holding talks over a potential January move.
However, it is now Chelsea who have moved into pole position. Reports indicate that discussions have commenced between Chelsea and Rennes regarding a transfer for the young centre-back. Furthermore, it is suggested that Jacquet himself favours a switch to Stamford Bridge.
While a deal is not yet finalised, leaving a slim possibility for Arsenal to intervene, the Blues' advanced talks place them as clear favourites to secure the defender's signature this winter.
Transfer Decisions Loom After Forest Stalemate
This transfer activity comes against the backdrop of a frustrating 0-0 draw away at Nottingham Forest on Saturday, a result which saw Arsenal miss a chance to extend their lead at the Premier League summit after Manchester City's defeat. The stalemate highlighted the need for squad depth and quality reinforcements as the title race intensifies.
With injury concerns and the potential setback in the Jacquet deal, the decisions made by Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy before the January transfer window closes could prove pivotal for their season. Securing a talent like Kostov for the future while addressing immediate defensive needs remains a complex but crucial balancing act.
