Arsenal are leading the race to sign NK Kustosija midfielder Baye Coulibaly, according to Defensa Central.

The Spanish website claims that Real Madrid are also interested in the 18-year-old as they are keen to strengthen their options in January due to an injury crisis.

Aurelien Tchouameni has been forced to play as a centre-back, leaving a gap in midfield, and Real are hoping to reinforce their squad with a young player like Coulibaly.

However, Defensa Central report that the European champions have encountered a problem with the Gunners currently “in the front row” to buy the teenager.

What do Arsenal fans need to know about the player?

Coulibaly first came to prominence whilst playing for Mali at the Under 17 World Cup last year. He started all seven games for his country, as they made it all the way to the semi-finals before losing to France. They also beat Argentina in the third-place playoff.

NK Kustosija then signed the midfielder a few months later. The Croatian side have made a habit of signing young gems, having also recruited Mika Faye before Barcelona bought the defender last year.

Barca are said to be pursuing Coulibaly as well so it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can beat both them and Real to the player’s signature.

Real have also been linked with a Gunners defender

Madrid’s lack of defensive options has led to reports that they may make a move for William Saliba in a future transfer window. It has even been suggested that the La Liga side have made contact with the defender’s representatives.

However, respected journalist Fabrizio Romano has played down those links, claiming that the centre-half is currently “100% focused” on Arsenal. Saliba has a contract keeping him at the Emirates until 2027.

Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here