Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has admitted that the Reds cannot afford to sign players for crazy fees this summer. The European champions only summer signing is young Dutch centre-back Sepp van den Berg and the Reds seem unlikely to spend big money ahead of the new season.

Difficult to strengthen this summer

Liverpool have heavily strengthened their squad in the last few seasons. The likes of Allison, Virgil van Dijk, Fabinho and Naby Keita cost big money, so there is little surprise that the Reds are unwilling to splash out more money this summer.

The Merseysider’s proved last season that they have a very strong squad. The strength of the squad is a problem in a way, as it makes it highly difficult for Klopp to bring in players that can improve the starting line-up. Quality players may also not be willing to compete for a starting place at Anfield and take the risk of not playing regular first-team football.

Rivals have strengthened this summer

While Klopp has talked about the Reds not strengthening their squad, Manchester City and Tottenham have broken their transfer records this summer. City brought in Spanish defensive midfielder Rodri and Spurs have brought in central midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

Those signings could well be highly key to the two team’s success next season. Rodri particularly will provide a quality alternative and replacement for veteran Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho at City. It could turn to be out one of the best signings of the summer.

Ndombele is regarded as one of the best up-and-coming central midfielders in the European game. Spurs will be stronger for the Frenchman’s presence in the centre of midfield. He may not help Tottenham win the Premier League title next season, but looks to be a very good signing.

Liverpool the only realistic title rival to City

Despite Liverpool’s lack of summer signings this summer, the Reds are really the only realistic title challengers to reigning champions Manchester City next season. Tottenham will be stronger, but Spurs are outsiders for the Premier League title next season.

Last season the Merseysider’s enjoyed their best ever Premier League campaign. However, despite the stellar campaign last season, including just one league defeat, the Reds finished as runners-up to City. In most other campaigns the Merseysider’s would have won the title last season.

The problem for Liverpool is that City were just that slightly bit better. The reigning league champions could be even better than they were last season. Can Liverpool do even better?

If they do produce an even better campaign than last season, then next season will be a truly special campaign. Liverpool will be pushing City close and if they finish the season above Pep Guardiola’s team, it seems likely that the Reds will end their long wait for English top-flight title.

With just a few weeks left of the transfer window, Liverpool looks unlikely to significantly strengthen their squads. Only time will tell if the Merseysider’s will regret not making any big moves in the transfer market this summer.

Will Liverpool improve their squad before the transfer window shuts?