Charlie Austin has called on Liverpool to step up their recruitment drive, insisting the club require four or five new signings to bolster squad depth ahead of the upcoming season.

The former striker was unequivocal in his assessment, describing a top-four finish as "the bare minimum" Liverpool should expect from themselves this campaign — and arguing that the current squad, without reinforcements, is not equipped to meet that standard.

Austin's comments add pressure on Liverpool's recruitment team to move swiftly in the transfer market, with the new season fast approaching and rivals already strengthening their squads.