Man City, Liverpool and Chelsea ALL hoping to sign RB Leipzig's Josko Gvardiol

Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea are in the race to sign Josko Gvardiol this summer.

The talented centre back is one of the most highly coveted players in Europe after starring for Croatia at the Qatar World Cup last year.

And Sportsmail understands the trio of top Premier League clubs are all interested in signing Gvardiol at the end of the season.

Pep Guardiola's reigning champions are currently leading the pursuit of the 21-year-old wonderkid.

Sportsmail also understands City are ready to make him a priority signing this summer.

Aymeric Laporte has made just six Premier League starts since returning from injury and several clubs are said to be interested in signing the Spaniard this summer.

But his club, German outfit RB Leipzig, are keen to keep him despite the interest from City, Liverpool and Chelsea.

The Blues, under rich new owner Todd Boehly, certainly have the funds but have already splurged £138million on Wesley Fofana, Kalidou Koulibaly and Benoit Badiashile this season.

While Liverpool could be unwilling to pay a near-nine-figure, which would represent a club record, given their desire for a significant rebuild in midfield.

As such, the Reds' pursuit of playmakers like Jude Bellingham, Mason Mount and Matheus Nunes may well take priority.

Clubs are keen to secure Gvardiol this summer, given it has been reported that a £98m release clause will kick in from 2024.