Chelsea are said to be leading the race to sign RB Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports. The 20-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer but a move collapsed after he penned a new five-year deal with the German giants.
The Blues hold an interest in Gvardiol, though Leipzig do not want to sell the defender, football.london understand. However, as he continues to impress for Croatia at the World Cup, retaining the centre-back's services could be a difficult task, with a number of European clubs eyeing a move in January.
Gvardiol has started in each of his nation's fixtures in Qatar and he's been central to Zlatko Dalić's side qualifying for a place in the semi-final against Argentina. Eager to quickly wrap up a deal for the Croatian star, Chelsea have submitted a formal offer, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.
READ MORE: Chelsea have a secret weapon in their bid to beat Liverpool and Real Madrid to Jude Bellingham
The report states that the Blues have tabled an offer worth £81million for Gvardiol but Todd Boehly is said to face stiff competition from Manchester United and Manchester City. It's believed that the Red Devils have 'formalised' their interest with a proposal in the region of £77million.
Foot Mercato add that Pep Guardiola's side are ready to out-bid Chelsea and are willing to offer £86million for the defender. With Gvardiol set to play a key role for Croatia in the remainder of the World Cup, his asking price could rocket in the coming days.
The Blues target has impressed Rio Ferdinand in Qatar, with the former United defender labelling him as his 'favourite defender' at the tournament. He said: "I have to say, he has been my favourite defender to watch in the tournament so far.
"He has got a great presence, he is happy for the battles, very physical and has a wand for a left foot. He has got pace too and I think all those attributes you need as a modern day defender.
"He can play the ball over various distances, he has pinpoint accuracy. He beats any type of press, is comfortable on either foot and is as comfortable with the ball at his feet as he is running out with it defensively.
"Also, the aggressiveness. He is willing to get forward, that youth, that fearlessness. He has quick enough feet for someone of his size. Everything about him for me has been so positive."
In May, a report from Croatia said that Gvardiol's father flew to London to discuss a possible move to Chelsea with then boss Thomas Tuchel. He was reportedly eyed as a perfect replacement for Antonio Rudiger on the left of a back-three but the Blues signed Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana instead.
READ NEXT:
Chelsea player ratings vs Aston Villa – Hall stands out, Hutchinson dangerous, Broja concern
The seven Chelsea players Graham Potter did not select for friendly vs Aston Villa
Chelsea star Armando Broja suffers injury in friendly against Aston Villa
Chelsea star Mason Mount sends emotional World Cup message after England lose to France
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
