Pakistan, Aug. 12 -- Liverpool have splashed out to defend their Premier League title as champions but face stiff competition from an Arsenal side desperate to shake off their tag as nearly men and a rejuvenated Manchester City.

After storming to a record-equalling 20th English top-flight 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, which the club have now retired - printed on Liverpool's jerseys.

The Reds have already spent ...