Arsenal eye Brighton's Kostoulas while the Seagulls guard his price

Arsenal are circling Brighton’s 19‑year‑old striker Charalampos Kostoulas, while the Seagulls remain determined to keep their rising talent under contract. The forward’s early‑season burst of five goals and three assists has sparked a tug‑of‑war between a club eager to invest and a side reluctant to sell.

Kostoulas has made ten appearances across all competitions this campaign, contributing five goals and three assists. His blend of physical strength, intelligent movement and technical ability has quickly marked him as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young forwards.

Scout insight

Former Premier League scout Bryan King told Football Insider that Arsenal are among the clubs monitoring Kostoulas closely. “It could be another big money move, and more pound notes in the pot for Brighton,” King said, adding that Arsenal are already watching his current games.

Brighton’s belief

Brighton signed the Greek‑born striker from Olympiacos in 2025, and head coach Fabian Hürzeler hailed him as “an outstanding young player” on the club’s website. Since his arrival, Kostoulas has become a regular starter, earning praise from former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham, who called him “the full package”.

Arsenal eye Brighton striker Kostoulas as long‑term solution

Mikel Arteta’s attack still relies heavily on Viktor Gyökeres, with Kai Havertz offering occasional central options, yet neither provides a long‑term solution. At 19, Kostoulas offers development potential and the ability to lead the line, linking play and adding goals – attributes Arsenal value beyond the immediate window.

Brighton have repeatedly signalled they will not part with their best young players cheaply. Kostoulas’s rapid rise could push his valuation toward elite‑striker territory, meaning Arsenal may need to act sooner rather than wait two seasons, which could see his price swell to around £100 million.

The contrast between Arsenal’s willingness to invest and Brighton’s determination to protect their asset underscores a looming decision: move now and secure a future star, or watch the price soar as the Seagulls hold firm.