Arsenal are among a number of clubs showing interest in Bayer Leverkusen winger Kerim Alajbegovic.
Leverkusen sold the Bosnia international to Red Bull Salzburg last year but, after an impressive season, took up their option to buy him back this summer for £7million.
However, the 18-year-old made such an impression in Austria, and on international duty with Bosnia, that a number of Premier League and Italian sides want to see if Leverkusen are willing to make a quick profit.
Champions Arsenal, Aston Villa and Leeds United have already met his representatives for talks as have Napoli, Roma and Inter Milan from Serie A.
Alajbegovic was named in Bosnia’s squad for the World Cup and is tipped to make a big impact in Group C against Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.
Born in Cologne to Bosnian parents, Alajbegovic is quick, skilful and can play across the front line.
His father and agent, Semin, was also a footballer, spending his entire career in Germany’s lower tiers.
Leverkusen are keen to keep him, but the interested clubs are already talking of offering close to £18m, a substantial return on their investment.
Born in Cologne to Bosnian parents, Alajbegovic is quick, skilful and can play across the front line
More talks are expected in the coming weeks as Leverkusen consider their stance.
Meanwhile, Arsenal right-back Josh Nichols has left the club for NK Kustosija.
The Croatian side have a reputation for developing youngsters and selling on to Bundesliga and La Liga clubs.
The 19-year-old, who made his Arsenal debut against Bolton in the Carabao Cup in 2024, said: ‘This hasn’t just been a team I’ve played for. It’s been a second family, a place where I started as a little boy, made lifelong memories, and shared unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch with my brothers!
‘Over the past decade, I’ve experienced the highs, the lows, the victories, the disappointments, and everything in between.
‘Through it all, my love for this club has never changed.
‘Wearing this badge has always been an honour, and every time I stepped onto the pitch, I gave everything I had because this club means so much to me.’
