Arsenal transfer news: The Gunners have joined clubs monitoring Vålerenga teenager Gabriel Rajkovic, according to TV2. The Norwegian broadcaster says the London club remain interested, although no side holds a clear advantage. Rajkovic cannot leave Norway before February 2027, when he turns 16, while British clubs face restrictions on recruiting EU or EEA players before 18.
That makes February 2029 the earliest point for a direct move to an English club under the rules cited in the report. No offers have reached Vålerenga yet. The club want more than €20 million if Rajkovic eventually leaves. That figure would make him the most expensive Eliteserien export.
Arsenal’s interest makes sense given his progress. He became the youngest Eliteserien debutant at 15 years and 20 days, breaking Martin Ødegaard‘s previous record. He has since scored twice in 13 league appearances, according to FBref.
Arsenal transfer news: What makes the 15-year-old interesting to Arsenal?
Rajkovic offers an unusual physical profile for a wide attacker. He has the height with sharp acceleration and can operate on either flank or through the middle. His ability to use both feet gives him more options when attacking defenders, while his movement can pull opponents away from their shape.
There are rough edges. Rajkovic’s passing and decision-making still need work, especially when opponents force hurried choices. Defensive positioning can improve too. At 15, that isn’t surprising. What matters for Arsenal is whether those details develop while his speed, size and attacking instincts remain intact.
Can Arsenal wait until 2029?
That delay changes the picture. Arsenal can monitor Rajkovic for years, but they cannot simply bring him to England now. European clubs without the same restriction can offer a more immediate route, while Rajkovic has shown little urgency about leaving Vålerenga.
That makes the current stage more about scouting than transfer negotiations. Arsenal can keep watching his minutes, goals, movement and response to senior football without committing to a fee. His two goals include a strike against Bodø/Glimt and a late equaliser against Sarpsborg 08, giving scouts further evidence.
For me, the €20m valuation raises the bigger question. Rajkovic has rare physical tools, but his senior sample remains small. Arsenal would need to judge the player he could become, rather than pay that sum for what he has shown at 15. Their interest looks logical, yet the next two years could change his value dramatically.
