Crvena Zvezda have turned down offers from both Marseille and Arsenal for teenage sensation Vasilije Kostov, with Inter Milan continuing to monitor the situation as the Serbian club’s asking price of €25 million holds firm according to Mozzart Sport.
The 2008-born midfielder has been exceptional this season, contributing 12 goals and six assists across domestic and Europa League competition.
His performances have attracted attention from clubs across Europe, and Inter have been tracking him for some time, FcInter1908 first exclusively naming the Nerazzurri’s interest several weeks ago.
Crvena Zvezda Turn Down Marseille & Arsenal Bids For Inter Target Kostov
According to Mozzart Sport, via FCInter1908, Marseille sent an emissary to Belgrade in recent days with a concrete offer of €17 million plus bonuses and a sell-on percentage.
Crvena Zvezda listened politely before declining.
The message from sporting director Zvezdan Terzic was clear, Kostov is worth significantly more.
The club’s position is non-negotiable: €25 million, not a cent less.
Arsenal’s offer, reported at €20 million, met the same fate.
Crvena Zvezda rebuffed the Gunners too, reinforcing that they intend to hold out for their valuation regardless of who comes calling.
Whether Marseille return with an improved bid remains to be seen.
Inter and Arsenal both maintain their interest, and with Kostov’s stock only rising, the race for one of European football’s most exciting young talents is far from over.
For him personally the best move would be to some club who develop young players with playing in CL, where he can get starting place, like Club Brugge, but hardly anyone beside top clubs and English clubs can cash out 25+mil for a 17-year old player.
Marseille treatment of youngsters doesn’t look good after their treatment of the young nwaneri.