Chelsea are "working on" the possible signing of RB Leipzig and Croatia centre-back Josko Gvardiol, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Gvardiol superb at World Cup

The 20-year-old went into the World Cup with a reputation as one of Europe's best young defenders, and he didn't disappoint in Qatar.

Gvardiol was magnificent for Croatia throughout the finals, standing out as arguably the best player in his position (he featured abundantly in team of the tournament selections) and starting all seven of his country's matches as they finished third.

The youngster won't be without suitors in January and next summer, and Chelsea are one of the clubs to have been linked with a move for him.

The Latest: Chelsea 'working on' Gvardiol swoop

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Romano claimed that the Blues are very much in the mix to acquire Gvardiol's signature, having already attempted to sign him this year.

The journalist stated:

"They are working on it, Chelsea are trying to find a way. They were the first to approach Leipzig last summer because they were pushing for Gvardiol. In the final days of the window, they had a bid rejected.

"It was €80m plus add-ons making it closer to €90m to leave the player on loan at Leipzig for one season and then sign him in the summer of 2023. Leipzig said no and they extended his contract."

The Verdict: Would be a huge signing

Whoever ends up signing Gvardiol from Leipzig will be getting a tremendous player, so the links with Chelsea are clearly exciting given his long-term potential.

The 20-year-old looks like the complete package as a centre-back, averaging 5.3 clearances per game at the World Cup along with an 89.9% pass completion rate, with Rio Ferdinand hailing the youngster's 'wand' of a left foot in punditry duty for BBC at the tournament.

The likes of Thiago Silva (38) and Kalidou Koulibaly (31) are both ageing figures in Chelsea's defence, so fresh blood may soon be required, and Gvardiola could be the star of the Blues' back-line for years to come if they can bring him to Stamford Bridge.