Real Madrid ‘are eyeing up a deal for Croatia World Cup star Josko Gvardiol, who is keen on a move’

Real Madrid are considering a move for RB Leipzig wonderkid Josko Gvardiol, according to reports in Spain. 

The talented centre half, 20, impressed for Croatia as they finished third at the Qatar World Cup, losing out 3-0 to eventual winners Argentina in the semi-final.

And as reported by Marca, Real have discussed signing Gvardiol for a long time and could push for a deal to be done for the defender, who featured in Sportsmail‘s team of the tournament.

The talented centre half impressed as his Croatia side finished third at the Qatar World Cup

The 19-cap international played 90 minutes of every match in Qatar, not missing a minute as his side reached the last four again, before scoring a goal as Zlatko Dalic’s side beat Morocco in the third-placed play-off. 

Although Argentina superstar Lionel Messi beat him repeatedly in the build-up to the third goal in the semi-final, Gvardiol impressed during the tournament with his physical strength, pace and composure under pressure.

He is considered one of the brightest prospects in world football, after an impressive 18 months at German side RB Leipzig after joining from Dinamo Zagreb in his homeland.

And the European champions are keen to add the 20-year-old to their defensive ranks – but are facing stiff competition from several Premier League sides, with Chelsea leading the race

Although the 6ft 1in star joined them for a fee of around £15million, on a five-year deal, his price has sky-rocketed since then after 42 Bundesliga matches, becoming a regular starter for Croatia and a stellar World Cup.

Leipzig, however, have no need to sell after Chelsea bought forward Christopher Nkunku for a reported fee for £63m – with the Todd Boehly-backed Blues leading the race among the Premier League sides who could rival Real for Gvardiol’s signature.

Marca add Gvardiol himself is open to a transfer – but that it could be unlikely given the asking price.