Joelon Lescott has come in for criticism for suggesting that Arsenal could become a more attractive destination for players than Liverpool by the end of the season.

In the Premier League this season, Arsenal are flying while Liverpool haven’t really got started.

Regardless of your opinion of either side, that is a fact as evidence by the 14 point gap between them in the Premier League table.

With the January window heading towards us after the World Cup, transfer speculation is picking up. Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham is being heavily linked with a move to Liverpool.

Lescott, speaking on TalkSport, suggested that the 19-year-old might prefer a move to Arsenal, which could be a more attractive destination come the end of the season.

“If Arsenal manage to get top four, which I think they will, then they attract a whole different calibre of player,” Lescott said.

“I can see people like Jude Bellingham deciding over them – if you are looking at Liverpool who potentially may or may not make top four – and Arsenal you’re thinking, ‘They’ve got the Champions League’.

“Now all of a sudden you are attracting a different calibre of player, which propels you again, which we have seen now with Man Utd they are able to attract.”

Listening on, Rio Ferdinand couldn’t help but laugh. “Jude Bellingham isn’t going to Arsenal!” Ferdinand quipped.

Arsenal have not been linked with a move for Bellingham in any serious fashion.