Before Hapoel Be'er Sheva: Red Star on track for a record-breaking deal
The Serbian champion's top talent, Vasilije Kostov, is set to be sold for a record 20 million euros. Ahead of the Champions League qualifiers, Inter has opened negotiations to sign him. A previous deal with Arsenal collapsed over payment terms.
Vasilije Kostov is the hottest name at Red Star Belgrade, widely regarded as the next great talent of Serbian football. Just ahead of the clash against Hapoel Be'er Sheva in the Champions League qualifiers, "Foot Mercato" reported yesterday (Sunday) that Inter has begun negotiations for his acquisition.
The Nerazzurri have been tracking the 18-year-old attacking midfielder for some time, and there appears to be significant progress between the parties. While the exact financial details remain undisclosed, Serbian media reports suggest Red Star is demanding 20 million euros, aiming to set a new club record for a player sale.
Kostov was previously close to a prestigious move to Arsenal, but the English champions were only willing to meet Red Star's demands through performance-based bonuses, causing the deal to collapse. With other clubs now monitoring the situation, Inter has moved to secure the talent immediately.
Will he miss the match against Hapoel Be'er Sheva?
Kostov has already made three official appearances for the Serbian senior national team. He has started the current season in stellar form, recording four goals and one assist in three games. It would be a major boost for Hapoel Be'er Sheva if he is sold before the upcoming ties and remains unavailable for selection.
The first leg will be held tomorrow (Tuesday, 20:30) in Hungary, with the return leg scheduled for next week in Belgrade. The winner will advance to the playoff round to secure a spot in the Europa League, while the loser will enter the Europa League playoffs, ensuring at least a place in the Conference League group stage.
