Paul Merson has named the team he believes is most likely to threaten Arsenal's title challenge this summer, and it's not Manchester City.

Now, Arsenal are ready to defend their title, and several key rivals have strengthened their squads.

Merson wrote in his latest Sky Sports column: "I don't think Manchester City will win the Premier League this year either.

"They had the best manager in the world last year and still didn't win the title. The only reason they were even in contention was because Arsenal had a three-week spell of poor form.

"I think Liverpool are Arsenal's closest challengers this season."

So far this summer, Liverpool have welcomed new head coach Andoni Iraola, from Bournemouth.

They have also signed Spanish winger Victor Muñoz and Rennes centre-back Jérémy Jacquet.

The Reds are now planning to splash out on Paris Saint-Germain winger Barcola, who the Ligue 1 giants value at £145 million.

Barcola has also been linked with a move to Arsenal, but the Gunners have recently turned their attention to Vinicius Jorge as they look to strengthen their attack.

Merson also mentioned Manchester City's midfield concerns in his column, despite the team having signed Andersen.

He believes that Andersen cannot play alongside Rodri in the same starting lineup.

Merson said: "Rodri and Moisés Caicedo are the two best defensive midfielders in the world. I don't know how he and Elliot Andersen can play together.

"Rodri is a top player who controls the tempo of the game, and Andersen will do his best in that regard. But to put both of them in? I don't think Manchester City needs that.

"How many teams will actively attack Manchester City? Everyone goes to the Etihad Stadium to set up a low block and play on the counter-attack.

"Do you need two defensive midfielders against Hull City? Of course not. But then someone will always be on the bench.

"Don't get me wrong, in important games like the Champions League quarter-finals or round of 16, especially away from home, you do need two defensive midfielders. Their defence was a bit too open in the Champions League last year, and their performance was far from good.

"But the 38 rounds of the Premier League are what matter most. There aren't enough games in the league for both of them to be in the same team at the same time.

"Unless Manchester City signed Andersen to have him learn for a season alongside Rodri, the best player in the world. However, spending £116 million on a substitute is too expensive. Rodri wants to play, he won't be willing to sit there as someone else's substitute.

"But you're still selling one of the best players in the world."

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