‘He has a chance’: Rio Ferdinand makes major claim about 20-year-old who Chelsea are reportedly trying to sign

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Rio Ferdinand has made a bold prediction about Chelsea target Josko Gvardiol.

Speaking on his own YouTube channel, Ferdinand prophesied the RB Leipzig centre-back could become the very best in his position one day.

Gvardiol is already amongst the most promising central defenders on the planet, owed largely to his eye-catching World Cup campaign.

The 20-year-old started all of Croatia’s seven fixtures, a run that ended with a bronze medal.

He halted some of Europe’s biggest names in their tracks, yet came unstuck when he faced arguably the greatest of all time.

Lionel Messi made sure Gvardiol would remember the semi-final for the rest of his life, just not for the right reasons.

Messi was intent on cutting Croatia in two, and did so with his typical class and control at various stages of the contest.

His assist for Julian’s Alvarez’s second of day followed a mazy dribble that left Gvardiol in a spin.

But this duel of talent past, present and future will not reflect badly on the Leipzig gem in the slightest.

Gvardiol’s Qatari story will be remembered for much more than being manhandled by Messi.

“I think Gvardiol was my favourite centre-back at the World Cup. He’s young, he’s 20-years-old, to come and perform the way he did, so mature, so calm. He’s really good on the ball, in the early stages coming out a lot,” said Ferdinand.

“Listen, against Messi and Argentina, he got turned quite a few times, but it’s Messi so that one I put to one side.

“In general, I thought he was standout and he has a chance to become one of the best defenders in the world if he continues improving like this.”

Chelsea want to greet Josko Gvardiol

Chelsea will certainly hope Gvardiol can flourish into the very best wearing their colours.

Todd Boehly is reportedly intent on signing the Croat, a pursuit that could reach record-breaking figures in terms of price tag.

Boehly has already apparently submitted an £80m bid, one that might have to be raised again in January.

Especially if the likes of Manchester City are also serious in their quest for Gvardiol’s signature.

A financial war for the defender’s services might ensue between the two Premier League giants in the New Year.