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Liverpool looks "set to return to Hong Kong" for the EPL's Asia Trophy this summer, according to Chan Kin-wa of the SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST. The Hong Kong FA is still finalizing details with the Premier League for the July event, but "a source familiar with negotiations" said that the five-time European champion "will be top of the bill." The source said, "They don’t make too many appearances in China but have been a household name there for many years. Also, their major sponsor [Standard Chartered] is very familiar with Hong Kong and that’s why they are targeted." HKFA CEO Mark Sutcliffe said that the organization was "close to reaching a deal with the Premier League." Sutcliffe: "Extensive discussions have taken place between the HKFA and the EPL over the last few months and an agreement in principle has been reached. Final arrangements can’t be confirmed yet because the EPL is also in discussion with the mainland authorities regarding one of the match days being held in China." This year’s event will be split between Hong Kong and Shanghai, "with the Premier League keen to expand its brand still further on the mainland." One of the three Premier League teams involved "is believed to be Southampton." The Hong Kong matches would also feature the domestic champions, while in Shanghai "big-spending" Chinese Super League side Shanghai SIPG would be the fourth side (
SCMP, 1/23).
