Transfer Battle Brews: Liverpool, United and Spurs Eye Brentford Captain Nathan Collins
With just over two weeks remaining before the summer transfer window closes on September 1, several of the Premier League’s top clubs are still working to finalise major deals.
Liverpool remain focused on completing a blockbuster move for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, while Tottenham Hotspur continue to press for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze — despite the midfielder having previously been linked with Arsenal. Manchester United, meanwhile, are re-assessing their transfer strategy after missing out on Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, despite being prepared to pay up to £100m for the Cameroon international.
Collins Emerges as a Surprise Target
According to the Daily Mail, all three clubs — Liverpool, Manchester United and Spurs — have now identified Brentford captain Nathan Collins as their next defensive target.
For Liverpool, a move for Collins could add much-needed depth at centre-back amid growing speculation over Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term future at Anfield. The Reds have already strengthened with the £26m signing of 17-year-old Giovanni Leoni from Serie A side Parma and continue to monitor Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, but Collins’ Premier League experience and leadership qualities make him an appealing option.
Manchester United are also in the market for defensive reinforcements after already raiding Brentford for winger Bryan Mbeumo earlier this summer. Any further moves, however, may depend on the futures of Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho, who could both leave Old Trafford before the deadline.
Spurs’ Thomas Frank Keen on Reunion
At Tottenham, new manager Thomas Frank is pushing hardest for Collins, having worked with him previously at Brentford. The Dane is eager to reshape Spurs’ defence and sees the Republic of Ireland international as an ideal fit for his system.
Brentford Determined to Hold Firm
Despite the growing interest, Brentford remain reluctant to part ways with their skipper. The Bees have already sanctioned the exits of former captain Christian Nørgaard and Bryan Mbeumo, while striker Yoane Wissa is also expected to leave before September 1. With Collins newly installed as captain, Brentford are under no financial pressure to sell and are expected to resist any formal offers for the 23-year-old.
That stance sets up a potential transfer tug-of-war in the final stretch of the window, though the Bees’ preference is clear: Nathan Collins will not be leaving unless an extraordinary bid arrives.
