Liverpool and Arsenal have been in touch with Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Denis Zakaria’s camp.
Zakaria, 22, is attracting plenty of interest after a strong start to the Bundesliga campaign for Gladbach.
The defensive midfielder has played every minute this season, with his accurate passing and powerful running catching the eye.
He is under contract until the summer of 2022 but interest in his services is mounting.
According to Sky Deutschland, Arsenal and Liverpool officials have both held an initial meeting with Zakaria’s representatives.
Manchester United have also reportedly been in talks with the star's entourage, while Tottenham have been following his progress.
A January departure from Borussia-Park is unlikely but Gladbach face an intense battle to hold onto their star man.
Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are circling, with their interest already lodged with Zakaria’s agents.
La Liga giants Atletico Madrid and Serie A big boys Inter Milan have also been keeping tabs on his performances.
Arsenal skipper Granit Xhaka plays alongside Zakaria at international level for Switzerland and is a big fan.
“His development is outstanding,” said Xhaka. “Having Denis in the national team next to me makes me feel better!
“But he has to stay tuned - now comes a very crucial phase for him.”
Germany legend Lothar Matthaus previously compared Zakaria to Real Madrid star Toni Kroos.
“I’m glad that Gladbach have found another pearl,” he said. “At his age I was earning my first stripes for Borussia. He reminds me of Toni Kroos at that age.”
