Paul Merson has warned Liverpool that he will be surprised if Chelsea don't win the Premier League in the next three to four years.
The Londoners have enjoyed a strong start to the season restart with back-to-back wins over Aston Villa and Manchester City, with the latter securing the title for the Reds on Tuesday.
Those wins have helped maintain Chelsea's 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.
With Pep Guardiola's future at Manchester City uncertain beyond next season, Merson is backing Chelsea to challenge for the title.
Despite Liverpool's dominance in the Premier League, he believes their star performers will attract interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona, which could open the door for Frank Lampard's team.
"I think Chelsea need a left-back, and they might need another centre-half, and then they'll be a major force next season," he told Sky Sports.
"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."
