Liverpool are weighing up a summer swoop for Brentford centre-back Nathan Collins, with the Republic of Ireland international emerging as a key defensive target for the Reds. Valued at around £23 million, the 23-year-old is attracting serious interest following an impressive debut season in West London.
Collins, who joined Brentford from Wolves last summer, has quickly established himself as one of Thomas Frank’s most reliable performers. Composed in possession, aerially dominant and tactically astute, the Irishman has not gone unnoticed by Liverpool’s recruitment department, who view him as a player with both Premier League pedigree and significant room to grow.
However, Liverpool may not have a free run at the former Burnley and Stoke man. Newcastle United are also believed to be monitoring Collins’ situation closely, with Eddie Howe keen to strengthen his backline ahead of a season where European football remains an ambition. With Sven Botman recovering from a long-term injury and questions over other defensive options, the Magpies see Collins as a smart and attainable addition.
For Liverpool, bolstering the defence is a priority this summer, especially as Arne Slot begins to shape the squad in his first transfer window at Anfield. While Virgil van Dijk remains a commanding presence, the Dutchman turns 34 next season, and the club are eager to secure long-term reinforcements to future-proof the heart of their defence.
Brentford are unlikely to stand in Collins’ way should a suitable offer materialise, though they would want to recoup at least the £23m they paid for him just a year ago – a fee that made him the most expensive Irish player in history at the time. The Bees’ well-known recruitment model means they may be open to a sale if it facilitates further investment across the squad.
With both Liverpool and Newcastle circling, Collins could find himself at the centre of one of the summer’s more intriguing transfer battles.
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