Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has been impressed with the performance of Croatian international Josko Gvardiol at the World Cup.

Chelsea are interested in signing the RB Leipzig defender.

Ferdinand told BBC: “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 pay 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.”