Paul Merson has insisted that he will be surprised if Chelsea don't win the Premier League in the next three to four years.
The Blues have enjoyed a strong start to the season restart with back-to-back wins over Aston Villa and Manchester City.
That has helped maintain their hopes of a top-four finish and a place in next season's Champions League.
With Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner already signed up for next season, Chelsea look like they will have an even stronger squad next season too.
As a result, despite Liverpool only lifting the Premier League title on Tuesday night, Merson believes the trophy will be back at Stamford Bridge within the next four years.
"To go and beat Man City was massive," he told Sky Sports.
"It was massive because everyone is looking to close the gap.
"Chelsea have got nice fixtures between now and the end of the season, so I don't think there's any way they're not finishing in the top four."
Merson added: "I think Chelsea need a left-back, and they might need another centre-half, and then they'll be a major force next season. I don't think they'll win the Premier League next season, but the gap won't be as big.
"They mean business. The owner has been brilliant; he's weighed it up and gone - bang! Here's your money.
"He's looked at the situation and thought, 'Tottenham are struggling, Pep Guardiola won't be at City forever,' and he's trying to get into the top four, close the gap and challenge when they have their chance.
"With Liverpool putting up records like they have with their players being as good as they are, it's only a matter of time before the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid come calling.
"In three or four years, I'd be quite shocked if Chelsea don't win the Premier League."
