£50m centre-back who Chelsea reportedly want to sign has just been named as one of the world’s best prospects

Add as preferred source on Google

RB Leipzig youngster Josko Gvardiol has been named among one of the world’s best prospects amid transfer links to Chelsea.

A 100-man shortlist has been released for this year’s Golden Boy Award by Tuttosport. Incidentally, there are no Chelsea representatives in the running for the individual prize.

Some of the award’s previous winners include Pedri, Erling Haaland, Joao Felix, Matthijs De Ligt and Kylian Mbappe.

Chelsea target Gvardiol

Leipzig defender Gvardiol, 20, is one of the talented youngsters in contention for the Golden Boy crown.

He’s a left-footed centre-back that’s just finished an impressive season for German club Leipzig, making 45 appearances across all competitions.

It’s been reported that Chelsea would like to try bring the Croatia international to Stamford Bridge this summer. Apparently, the Blues have set their sights on Gvardiol as one of their priority targets to bolster Thomas Tuchel’s defensive options next season. He’s reportedly got a £50million price tag.

Rudiger heir

It’s a thankless task for someone to step into Antonio Rudiger’s shoes next season. He’s leaving behind a major hole as the left-sided centre-back in a back three, which is a role Gvardiol could suit playing.

However, Chelsea fans need to be realistic with their expectation on new defensive signings.

Rudiger’s been performing as one of the world’s elite centre-backs for the last 12 months in a Chelsea shirt, so it’ll be a surprise if his exit doesn’t dent the defence in the opening couple of months of the new season.

Gvardiol is a physical, quick and commanding defender that ticks a lot of boxes, though.

Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.