Mbappe, Dembele, Rashford compete for Golden Boy award 2017

A panel of major newspapers across Europe has just selected 25 candidates for the title of best young player of the year.

Kylian Mbappe is the most likely candidate for the award after a successful year. The young French striker played a major role in helping Monaco reach the Champions League semi-finals and win the Ligue 1 title from PSG, who have dominated for many years.

Mbappe's name appeared frequently in the newspapers during the transfer season, because of rumors of joining Real Madrid. In the end, he joined PSG on loan, but with a buyout clause next season for the second highest fee in the world.

Mbappe, Dembele and Rashford (from left to right) are the three most famous young stars of 2017.

Mbappe's main rival for the award is former Dortmund striker Ousmane Dembele. Dembele was outstanding last season and was recognised for his $125 million (potentially rising to $175 million) move to Barcelona.

Marcus Rashford, who finished second in last year's poll, is also on the shortlist this year. The fact that Rashford has been given regular starts by Mourinho this season speaks volumes about the Man Utd striker's ability.

The Golden Boy award honors the most promising players under the age of 21. Initially, the award was organized and voted for by the Italian newspaper Tuttosport. Currently, 30 journalists from 12 major newspapers across Europe are allowed to vote for this award.

The 2016 winner was Bayern Munich midfielder Renato Sanches, now on loan at Swansea.

According to VNE