Liverpool are expected to push ahead with a move for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, but the champions are also linked with Brentford‘s Nathan Collins.
Guehi started for Palace in their Premier League opener against Chelsea on Sunday, however there remains a strong chance he leaves before the transfer window closes.
Liverpool are his most likely destination and talks are ongoing over a deal which could be worth around £35 million.
Having already signed Parma youngster Giovanni Leoni there is less urgency over bringing in another centre-back, but the Reds seemingly have a number of candidates.
According to the Mail‘s Mike Keegan that includes Brentford and Republic of Ireland defender Collins, with Liverpool joining Man United and Tottenham in their interest.
Collins is into his third season with the Bees, having joined from Wolves in a club-record £23 million deal in 2023, but clearly Anfield would be a step up.
Crucially the 24-year-old would qualify as a homegrown player in the Premier League, which is also the case with Guehi and is imperative when it comes to the squad-building process.
However it is maintained that Brentford will be unlikely sellers having already seen Bryan Mbeumo and captain Christian Norgaard depart the club this summer with Yoane Wissa set to follow.
Norgaard’s successor in the armband, Collins has four years remaining on his contract and the club also hold an option to extend that by a further two years.
LONDON, ENGLAND - Saturday, February 17, 2024: Brentford's Nathan Collins during the FA Premier League match between Brentford FC and Liverpool FC at the Brentford Community Stadium. Liverpool won 4-1. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
That would make any negotiations for transfer more complicated, unless there is a release clause built into that contract.
Collins is 6’4″ and naturally dominant in the air, and his front-footed defensive approach is complemented by a composure and technical quality in possession.
He has been touted as a possible target for Liverpool in the past and it is likely that club scouts have been tracking his progress.
Whether any move develops is unclear at this stage and could depend on the situation around Guehi, who would bring more top-level experience to Arne Slot‘s defence and would be available on a free next summer if not signed straight away.