Lille midfielder Joe Cole has compared his teammate Eden Hazard to Barcelona forward Lionel Messi.

The Belgian playmaker is thought to be wanted by Europe's top clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

"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," Cole told talkSPORT.

"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."

Despite interest around the player, Cole believes that he should stay with the French side.

"The best thing is for him to stay at Lille for as long as he can," added Cole. "He's playing for a good club, winning titles and there's plenty of time [for him] to go elsewhere. The fans love him, the players love him and we want him to stay."

Cole is currently on a season-long loan with Lille from Liverpool.