Reds brace for title defence

LIVERPOOL have splashed out to defend their English Premier League crown but face stiff competition from an Arsenal side desperate to shed their “nearly men” tag and a rejuvenated Manchester City.

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After storming to a record-equalling 20th English topflight title in Arne Slot’s first season in charge, Liverpool have looked to build from a position of strength during a summer marked by tragedy.

Portuguese forward Diogo Jota was killed in a car accident alongside his brother last month, plunging the club into mourning. Tributes to Jota will continue throughout the season, with “Forever 20” - his shirt number, now retired - printed on Liverpool's jerseys.

The Reds have already spent £260 million (about R6.2bn) on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong.

However, after the departures of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez, they are expected to launch a fresh bid for Alexander Isak, with Newcastle demanding a British transfer record fee for the Swedish striker.

Liverpool’s rivals will hope Wirtz and Ekitike take time to adapt to the rigours of the Premier League after impressing in Germany’s Bundesliga, while defensive frailties remain a concern.