Ray Parlour backs Arsenal to sign Sunderland's Jobe Bellingham in the summer | OneFootball

Ray Parlour gave his views on Arsenal's interest in Jobe Bellingham.

Ray Parlour has admitted that if Sunderland's Jobe Bellingham is anywhere near the standard of his brother, then he would be a good addition for Arsenal.

This season, the midfielder has arguably been Regis Le Bris' finest player with his partnership alongside Dan Neil causing Championship teams a host of problems.

Alongside his four goals and three assists, he has created 32 chances, won an impressive 6.62 duels per 90 minutes, and averaged 5.96 recoveries per 90.

Unsurprisingly, this form has piqued the interest of many a Premier League side. According to the Sun, Arsenal, Manchester United and Crystal Palace are keen, with Tottenham and West Ham United also eyeing a potential move.

However, it has since been reported that Bellingham is keen to remain at the Stadium of Light this January, with the Black Cats' promotion bid ongoing.

While this sees him supposedly more open to a move in the summer, it remains unclear whether a tempting offer could persuade him to leave, with the likes of the Gunners and United sure to have a large pull.

Ray Parlour on Arsenal's interest in Bellingham

Speaking to FLW via NetBet Online Casino about Arsenal's rumoured interest in Bellingham, Ray Parlour acknowledged that the youngster would be a good addition to Mikel Arteta's squad.

He said: “Well if Jobe can be anything as good as Jude then he can most definitely be a player Arsenal could look at in the summer.

“If reports from the scouts are positive, then Mikel Arteta will be interested for sure.

“Depending on priorities for Mikel and also how they value Jobe, they could jump the summer queue, but a striker is the most important position Arsenal should look at right now.”

Arsenal may have to wait until the summer for Bellingham

As mentioned by Parlour, Arsenal's top priority this window must be securing a new striker, as the Gunners have scored just one goal from their last expected tally of 8.23.

While Bellingham would be a solid addition to this squad, they currently have a whole host of options in midfield, including the likes of Declan Rice, Thomas Partey and Martin Ødegaard.

This could see them wait until the summer and with Bellingham keen to stay at the Stadium of Light this winter, this would suit both the player's and the club's priorities.

In addition, from Sunderland's point of view, another six months of top performances from the 19-year-old will see his price continue to increase. Currently, their number seven is valued at £20 million, which would be a steal for a player of his quality.

Time will tell, but if Arsenal decide to make a move for Bellingham, it is likely to come in the summer.