Joe Cole: "Hazard is different class"

Joe Cole has likened his Lille teammate Eden Hazard to three-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi.

The Belgian international has caught the attention of Europe's elite and is widely expected to leave France this summer.

Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs have all made their interest clear; however the 22-year-old has hinted that White Hart Lane could be his preferred destination.

Former Chelsea midfielder Cole has said that the youngster has what it takes to succeed at the top.

"Hazard is different class. He's still only 21 and has definitely got another few gears to go up. He's got the same attitude as Rooney at that age - he's fearless," said Cole. "He knows how good he is, and that's a positive. All the top players have got that belief and a bit of presence and arrogance, and he's like that.

"He's a bit like Messi. There's only one Messi and I don't want to put pressure on the kid, but he's like him - short, squat, powerful legs, great touch, he can finish, he's got everything."

Cole, 30, joined Lille on a season-long loan from Liverpool in August.