Pundit explains where Liverpool come up short against Man City and Arsenal

Liverpool are "two significant signings" away from being considered genuine Premier League title contenders this season.

That is the view of former midfielder Danny Murphy who has delivered his verdict on what crucial components are missing from Arne Slot's squad as the Reds look to better last year's third-placed finish in the top-flight of English football.

Many pundits would agree that Manchester City and Arsenal will start the campaign as overwhelming favourites to compete for the title. But following a strong pre-season, could the Merseyside giants be the surprise package and stop Pep Guardiola's side from being crowned champions five years in a row?

That was a question put to Murphy and whilst he believes Liverpool will secure a top-four finish, he believes the squad is still a little short to mount a serious challenge.

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Murphy makes Liverpool Premier League title prediction

"I expect them to be top four, but I don’t think they’ll overcome City," he said on talkSPORT. "I don’t think so. They’d be better [with two significant new signings] – I think a centre-half and a holding midfielder.

"When you look at the two best teams in the country last year with Rodri and [Declan] Rice, Liverpool don’t have that.

"Although [Wataru] Endo and [Alexis] MacAllister did well in certain games and certain periods, that consistent person in the middle of the pitch who’s physically dominant and able to control games like those two do, Liverpool don’t really have."

Interestingly, a centre-back and central midfielder have been on Liverpool's radar this summer. However, they opted against entering a bidding war for Leny Yoro - who ended up joining Manchester United - whilst Martin Zubimendi has decided to stay at Real Sociedad instead of making the switch to Merseyside.