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 clear favourite for the award after a stellar year. The young French striker has been instrumental in helping Monaco reach the Champions League semi-finals and snatch the Ligue 1 title from PSG, who have dominated the competition for 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 buy-back 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 starting time by Mourinho this season speaks volumes about the Man Utd striker's ability.

The Golden Boy award honors the brightest 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