Arsenal transfer latest: Talks opened as Gunners rival Bayern Munich and Barcelona for star

Arsenal transfer round-up as the Gunners are linked with an exciting youngster and a defensive target closes in on a move to a London rival

Arsenal managed to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League despite a dour goalless draw at Nottingham Forest.

The Gunners had the opportunity to go nine points clear, having seen Manchester City lose 2-0 at Manchester United earlier in the day. But Mikel Arteta's squad faltered as they were held by Sean Dyche's relegation battlers.

In light of injury concerns and transfer setbacks, Arteta and the club are now faced with the decision of whether to bolster their ranks before the winter window closes. Here's a look at the latest transfer rumours and news surrounding the Gunners...

'New Pedri' in Gunners' sights

Arsenal are reportedly interested in a player drawing comparisons to Barcelona sensation Pedri.

Seventeen-year-old midfielder Vasilije Kostov, currently impressing at Red Star Belgrade, is said to be attracting attention from European giants such as Bayern Munich and Barca.

According to The Sun, the Gunners are among his growing list of admirers. Kostov caught the eye of many when he cheekily scored a 'Paneka' penalty against Barca in the UEFA Youth League last year, while his playing style has drawn favourable comparisons with Spanish star Pedri.

He made his first-team debut last April and has since become a mainstay this season, featuring for Red Star in both the Serbian top flight and the Europa League. He's already earned a call-up to his country's senior squad.

Serbian reports suggest that Red Star have no plans to cash in on Kostov, who turns 18 in May, this month, but are open to a summer sale. A price tag of around £17million is being mooted, with Bayern reportedly having already expressed interest.

Chelsea in talks over Gunners target

Arsenal appear set to lose out on promising young Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, who is said to have entered talks with Chelsea.

The Gunners have been keeping tabs on the France under-21 star, with sporting director Andrea Berta engaging in discussions for a potential January move. However, according to the Standard, it's Chelsea who are leading the race to sign the 20-year-old.

While a deal hasn't been finalised yet - leaving a glimmer of hope for Arsenal - transfer talks have taken place between Chelsea and Rennes, with Jacquet believed to be leaning towards a move to Stamford Bridge.

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