Former Liverpool captain Graeme Souness believes the Reds must be considered strong favourites to retain the Premier League title following captures of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota.

The Sky Sports pundit thinks Jurgen Klopp’s side already had a very strong squad, considering their performances over the past twelve months, and he feels Manchester City. Manchester United and Chelsea will have to improve a great deal in order to compete for the league this campaign:

“If you look at it from a Liverpool angle, if we were sitting here a year ago and thinking we have a strong team, a great chance of winning it this year, we’ve got to say that we’ve got a bigger chance this year with the two signings we’ve made. Liverpool are stronger today than they were 12 months ago. They will still be the team to catch.”

“I expect City to be more consistent, and not lose and drop points like they did last year. I don’t see how United can get any better than third. I would also expect Chelsea to push them all the way.”

There is a lot to be said for strengthening your team while you are in a position of strength, and Liverpool have certainly done that with the two signings they have made in recent days.

Thiago will give the Reds midfield a new dimension while Diogo Jota’s arrival will ease the pressure on the front three. The Portuguese international can play right across the forward line but he will likely be most often utilised as a replacement for Sadio Mane on the left flank.