Arsenal transfer news: Efforts to sign 19-year-old target stepped up

Arsenal have stepped up efforts to sign 19-year-old Stuttgart midfielder Berkay Ozcan after sending scouts to watch the U-19 Turkey international.

Turkish-Football recently reported Arsenal scout Jurgen Kost revealing the North London side have been keeping close tabs on a young Turkish player in Germany.

“I have been scouting a Turkish kid in Germany, I watched him 2-3 weeks ago, he plays in central midfield,” Kost was quoted as saying by Turkish-Football.

“I won’t give his name yet but he is very talented and we are considering signing him.” 

See More: For Berkay Ozcan news and everything you want to know about the Stuttgart star

Arsenal have increased their scouting efforts and have made contact with Ozcan’s representatives, a source close to the player revealed to Turkish-Football.

The Gunners sent scouts to keep tabs on Ozcan during the U19 Turkey vs U19 Poland clash.

The 19-year-old captained the U19 Turkey side during the 1-0 defeat.

Ozcan’s agent Baris Yukselen has also confirmed interest from Arsenal.

London.Football quoted Yukselsen as saying: “Many top clubs are interested at Berkay.

“Arsenal has Berkay on its list, but at the moment he is focusing on Stuttgart’s resurgence.” 

The Gunners could face competition for Ozcan from Besiktas who have also been keeping close tabs on the youngster.

Ozcan joined Stuttgart in 2013 before progressing through the youth ranks. He signed a new four-year contract in 2015 and has played an important role for the German outfit this season.

The 19-year-old has make 18 appearances in all competition for Stuttgart this season.