Arsenal transfer news: Talks opened over target as Gunners show interest in 'new Pedri'

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Arsenal edged further clear at the top of the Premier League despite an uninspiring goalless draw at Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The Gunners could have taken a big step toward winning their first Premier League title since 2004 with three points at the City Ground, having earlier seen Manchester City lose to city rivals United at Old Trafford.

Victory would have moved them nine points clear, but Mikel Arteta's side fluffed their lines as they were held by relegation-threatened Forest.

Following injury issues and some transfer setbacks, Arteta and the club must decide whether to strengthen before the end of the winter window. Here's the latest transfer news and speculation surrounding the Gunners…

Arsenal have been credited with an interest in a player being likened to Barcelona superstar Pedri.

A string of European heavyweights, including Bayern Munich and Barca, are also said to be in the running to sign the 17-year-old midfielder Vasilije Kostov, who has been starring for Red Star Belgrade.

And the Gunners are on the lengthy list of admirers, reports The Sun. The youngster shot to the attention of many by scoring a cheeky 'Paneka' penalty against Barca in the UEFA Youth League last year, while his style of play has been compared favourably with Spain star Pedri.

He made his first-team debut last April and has established himself as a regular this season, playing for Red Star in both the Serbian top flight and the Europa League . He has already been called up by his country at the senior level.

Reports in Serbia say Red Star have no intention of cashing in on Kostov, who turns 18 in May, this month, but are open to selling in the summer. A figure of around £17million has been mooted, with Bayern said to have already made an enquiry.

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The Gunners look set to miss out on exciting young Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, who has reportedly started talks with Chelsea .

Arsenal have been tracking the France under-21 star, with sporting director Andrea Berta holding talks with a view to a January move. However, it's Chelsea who are in pole position to sign the 20-year-old, reports the Standard.

A deal has not quite been finalised - potentially leaving the door ajar for Arsenal - but a transfer has been discussed between Chelsea and Rennes, while Jacquet is said to favour a move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have been on the lookout for a centre-back, a midfielder and an attacking player this month.

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