Rio Ferdinand has singled out RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardoil for praise following his strong showings at the World Cup in Qatar
The 20-year-old defender was in terrific form as Croatia made it to the semi-finals, having knocked out tournament favourites Brazil on penalties along the way. Beaten by eventual winners Argentina, much has been made of Gvardiol's future, with Chelsea, Arsenal and Spurs said to be interested in the defender.
With his contract in Germany not set to expire until June 2027, the former Dinamo Zagreb man is likely to cost any willing suitors upwards of £70million this summer. With his showings in the Middle East only further boosting his profile, the centre-back has been hailed for his clever ball-playing skills and superb aerial abilities.
READ MORE: What happened in Chelsea win vs Brentford hints at huge Graham Potter change against Bournemouth
Ferdinand, who spoke candidly regarding the defender most recently via his YouTube channel, insisted that his performances at the World Cup were a joy to watch for a fellow defender like himself.
''I think [Josep] Gvardiol was my favourite centre-back at the World Cup,'' Rio began. ''He is young, he is 20 years old and the way he performed, so calm, so mature, he was really good on the ball.
''In the early stages we saw him coming out with the ball but against Argentina and Messi he got turned quite a few times, but this is Messi, so we can put that one side. In general, I thought he was a standout and I think he has the chance to be one of the best defenders in the world if he carries on like this.''
READ NEXT:
What happened in Chelsea win vs Brentford hints at huge Graham Potter change against Bournemouth
Who is Andrey Santos? - Todd Boehly close to sealing £20m wonderkid Chelsea January transfer
Todd Boehly can sign Chelsea's own Lionel Messi with £78m January transfer after World Cup stat
Wesley Fofana breaks silence after Chelsea injury in Brentford friendly amid Reece James message
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
