Arsenal and Tottenham open chase for Partizan Belgrade youngster Andrija Zivkovic

Arsenal and Tottenham are interested in signing Partizan Belgrade youngster Andrija Zivkovic, dubbed by many as the "Serbian Messi". The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the brightest talents in Europe, with a host of Spanish clubs including Atletico Madrid and Villareal interested in his services.

Spanish publication AS reports that Valencia had initiated contact with the club over signing him last summer but the player wanted to spend one more season at Belgrade where he has excelled and earned himself a call to the Serbia national team. The 19-year-old has won the U-20 World Cup with Serbia last June and is yet to extend his contract, which expires next summer. Chelsea were also interested in signing him last summer but were unable to complete a deal for the forward.

The player will be eligible to talk to foreign clubs in January for a free transfer next summer, something that Belgrade are trying to avert by urging interest from clubs across Europe for a move in January. Atletico are currently favourites for his signature given their legacy of creating great players while grooming them as youngsters. The two north London clubs can also make a case for their interest, with both having seen a myriad of players come through their youth system in the last few years.

The winger is known for his versatility, with the ability to play on both wings and providing width and creativity from the flanks. He will be a good addition at the Emirates, with the Gunners lacking a proper replacement for Alexis Sanchez, who had to be shifted to the right against West Bromwich Albion, with Kieran Gibbs replacing him on the left wing. Tottenham can also do with some fresh infusion of young blood into the team and adding to the promising core which has displayed glimpses of its potential over the last two games.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are struggling with a debilitating injury to Francis Coquelin, who is expected to miss more than three months after knee ligament damage against West Brom. The Frenchman was forced off in under 20 minutes, with his replacement Mikel Arteta also pulling up with a calf injury in the second half.