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Arne Slot's squad are off to Asia.(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool are jetting off on their pre-season tour to Asia this morning with Arne Slot's Premier League champions playing four games before taking on Crystal Palace in the Community Shield in three weeks’ time.

And while the Reds continue to mourn the tragic passing of Diogo Jota earlier this month, anticipation of a strong title defence is building.

Once they get used to the conditions and time difference, Liverpool will take on AC Milan next weekend before facing Yokohama Mariners and then take on Athletic Club in a double-header on the same day.

Here are some of the things to look out for as the new campaign appears on the horizon.

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The Germany star did not make his much-awaited debut against Preston North End last weekend so anticipation remains high ahead of his first appearance for the club following his record move.

It will almost certainly come against Milan next Saturday (12:30pm BST) and considering the fee paid there will be pressure on Wirtz to adapt immediately.

Not content with spending £211m in the market already, Liverpool are now pushing on with a move for the Eintracht Frankfurt striker who could cost another £80m.

Newcastle are out of the running, a bid is in the pipeline, personal terms are no issue and once a fee is agreed between the clubs the young France striker could be part of the second half of the tour.

Darwin Nunez could be heading for the exit at Anfield.(Image: Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)

That would expedite the likely departure of striker Darwin Nunez, who will be part of the touring party but could well bid farewell before the rest of the squad returns to Merseyside.

Inevitably he is now being linked with a switch to Newcastle but more realistically could head to the Saudi Pro League, with several clubs there keeping a keen eye on the Uruguayan.

A travelling squad is yet to be announced and there is an expectation that fewer academy players compared to this time last year will be given a look in because Slot’s squad has so much more depth to it following the signings - joining Wirtz are Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and goalkeepers Giorgi Mamardashvili, plus youngsters Armin Pecsi and Freddie Woodman.

But Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha and Ben Doak could be among those set for some window of opportunity to impress.

Diogo Jota’s sad death continues to cast a shadow over everything and the respectful tributes will continue during the tour - not least from the thousands of passionate fans the club has across Asia.

Supporters clubs in Hong Kong and Tokyo have confirmed they will mark his passing.

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