Arsenal transfer news LIVE - Eberechi Eze 'hint', Malick Fofana update, Oleksandr Zinchenko 'offer'

Premier League title prediction

Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have predicted that Arsenal will fall short in the title race once more, as they expect further disappointment for Mikel Arteta's side.

Discussing Arsenal's prospects on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards reflected on his previous predictions: "It's a hard one because I remember saying last season that I thought Manchester City had won it if everyone stayed fit. If [City] got any injuries, those little injuries could be the difference.

"Bringing in Gyokeres now for Arsenal is massive. And not just because he's a big-name forward. Because of his movement that we talk about with strikers all the time. Havertz is really good, we're all big fans of Havertz, but in a number 10 position where he can create, not leading the line.

"I know [Havertz has] done really good movement when he plays up there but he hasn't got a striker's instinct. So that's why I think Gyokeres is gonna add something really special. I still don't know if it's enough to get them over the line. I still don't know. I think one or two injuries and they're back to the same as last season. So I'm going to say challenging but not champions."

Despite bolstering their squad depth, Richards remains unconvinced that Arsenal's title charge could withstand injuries to key players throughout the season. Premier League icon Alan Shearer also reckons the Gunners will conclude the upcoming campaign in a familiar spot.

"I'd agree. I think they'll challenge, I just think they may fall short again," Shearer said. "I like all of their signings. I think that's exactly what they needed. And I still don't think they may be finished yet in terms of bringing players in and certainly players going out. I've definitely got them in Champions League but I just don't see them having enough to win the title. Just fall short."

The Gunners face a formidable task to usurp defending champions Liverpool, who have brought in several marquee signings throughout the summer. Lineker explained: "I think I concur with both of you on that front. I probably wouldn't have said that if it wasn't that Liverpool have strengthened so well.

"A lot too will depend on how Gyokeres does. I mean he scored a terrific goal in pre-season but we all know pre-season is not that important. Although, it is for a striker in terms of that feeling of hitting the back of the net. So I think a lot will depend on him but we know he'll get good service. I think they could go close again but I'm going to agree with both of you."