The champions may have to face up to life without Cristiano Ronaldo next season, yet this possibility hasn't stopped the bookmakers keeping Manchester United short to win a third consecutive Premier League title. Despite the Portuguese forward's Old Trafford future hanging in the balance, Boylesports currently go a best price 11/8 about Sir Alex Ferguson's men retaining their crown.
Many punters will be waiting on the outcome of the Ronaldo saga before placing their title bets, although if he does leave, Chelsea's odds on being victorious will surely be cut from their current 9/4 (Betfred). Luiz Felipe Scolari is sure to add more quality players to his squad in addition to Deco, and the Blues look confident of retaining Lampard, someone who could thrive with Ballack in the middle of the park. It must also be remembered how close Chelsea pushed United last season, despite sacking Jose Mourinho in the early stages of campaign and having a stopgap manager in charge for the remainder.
As usual, firms are making the Premier League a four-horse race next season, although they have switched the odds around on Arsenal and Liverpool compared to last season. The Gunners are a best price 11/2 (VC Bet) after demonstrating last term what could be achieved with a smaller squad. The bookies were bordering on being dismissive about Arsene Wenger's charges before they embarked on a title charge which only faltered in March.
Conversely, Liverpool are 8/1 (VC Bet) after failing to get anywhere near the leading three last season. There was plenty of hype surrounding the Reds after a handful of decent results in the opening weeks, yet the perpetual inconsistency was there for all to see as the campaign wore on. Once again, Rafael Benitez is signing a handful of new players to try and bring the Premier League title to Anfield, although it's hard to see them finishing above all three of their main contenders.