Chelsea, Manchester United and Barcelona are ready to battle it out for 20 year old Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol, according to Fichajes via Caught Offside.

The left-footed RB Leipzig defender is one of the most exciting young defenders in European football and has already made 12 appearances for Croatia despite his young age.

Scouts from Manchester United, Chelsea and Barcelona will reportedly keep a close eye on Gvardiol during the World Cup.

The young defender has made 65 appearances thus far for RB Leipzig, chipping in with three goals and four assists. But the Bundesliga giants are bracing themselves to lose Gvardiola next year after keeping hold of him this past summer. 

Chelsea came close to securing the services of the 20-year-old in the summer transfer window, but a move did not materialise. The Blues remain keen on signing the Croat, with Kalidou Koulibaly blowing hot and cold this season.

The Red Devils see the 20 year old Croatian as an ideal replacement for Harry Maguire, who has dropped down the pecking order at Manchester United.