Liverpool’s Centre-Back Pursuit: Marc Guehi or Nathan Collins?

Liverpool’s centre-back search has become a hot topic, with the club continuing to be linked to various Premier League defenders. While Marc Guehi remains the primary target, a potential alternative has emerged in Nathan Collins. In a recent report by Empire of the Kop, sources have suggested that Liverpool have identified the Brentford captain as a viable option if their pursuit of Guehi falls through. Here, we delve deeper into the two players and assess what they could bring to Anfield in the final stretch of the summer transfer window.

Marc Guehi: The Primary Target

Liverpool’s hopes of signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace have been bolstered by comments from Eagles chairman Steve Parish, who has publicly acknowledged the need to resolve the defender’s future swiftly. With Guehi entering the final year of his contract, Liverpool’s interest in him is seen as a logical move.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Guehi is likely to move this month, and Liverpool will be looking to take advantage of the situation. His status as an established Premier League player, his leadership qualities, and his potential homegrown status make him a desirable target. The fact that his contract situation makes him a more affordable target than others only adds to his appeal.

As the most coveted centre-back for Liverpool, Guehi’s acquisition would provide the team with experience, versatility, and leadership at the back. His familiarity with Premier League football is crucial, and his ability to slot into the Liverpool squad could be seamless. With the Reds needing more than just three senior centre-backs, Guehi would be the perfect fit.

Nathan Collins: The Alternative Option

If the Guehi deal doesn’t materialise, Liverpool have identified Nathan Collins as a potential Plan B. The Brentford captain has emerged as a strong alternative, with his leadership and defensive abilities drawing the attention of the Anfield hierarchy. According to Empire of the Kop, sources close to the club reveal that while no official bid has been made, Collins is firmly on their radar.

At just 24 years old, Collins has already made a name for himself in the Premier League, earning praise for his consistent performances. His leadership abilities were acknowledged by Brentford, who have dubbed him a “born leader” on their official website. Collins also boasts impressive statistics for core defensive metrics, ranking among the top players in Europe for blocks, clearances, and aerial duels won. His solid performances last season make him an appealing prospect, especially when considering the defensive gaps Liverpool currently face.

With a contract that runs until 2029, Collins’ value is expected to be in the range of €40m-€45m (£34.6m-£39m), which places him in a similar price bracket to Guehi. However, the Irishman’s long-term deal at Brentford and his status as club captain make him a more challenging player to acquire, especially with the potential for him to play a backup role at Anfield. The prospect of swapping a captaincy role at Brentford for a rotation spot at Liverpool could be a hard sell.

Guehi vs Collins: A Decision for Liverpool

Liverpool are clearly eyeing two talented and proven Premier League defenders to bolster their squad before the close of the transfer window. While Guehi remains their primary target, Collins offers an intriguing alternative, with the added bonus of his leadership capabilities. However, his potential to fit into the Liverpool squad might be more limited, as he would likely find it difficult to take a backseat to the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.

Both defenders bring strengths to the table, but it remains to be seen which one will ultimately join the Reds. With Liverpool’s centre-back depth currently limited, securing a player of either calibre would certainly boost their defensive options.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, there’s reason for cautious optimism, but also some healthy skepticism. Nathan Collins may have potential, but one must wonder whether he can really adapt to life at Liverpool if his role is likely to be as a backup. After all, the Reds are a team that competes for trophies, and his move to Anfield could be a step backwards in his career, given his established role as Brentford’s captain.

Moreover, the idea of having three senior centre-backs in an era where injuries can hit at any time feels risky. With Joe Gomez’s Achilles injury still looming large, the club needs to secure a more reliable option. While Guehi is certainly a more ideal target with his experience and contract situation, there’s a nagging concern that other clubs may be eyeing him too, potentially pushing the price higher or making the deal even more complicated.

In many ways, this feels like a last-minute scramble for a centre-back when we know the squad’s needs should have been addressed earlier in the summer. Arne Slot’s challenge is to find a defender who can offer the same level of quality and leadership that Virgil van Dijk provides, without having to wait until late in the transfer window.

Ultimately, Liverpool fans will be hoping the Reds can pull off a deal for either player, but the clock is ticking, and the stakes are high. Only time will tell if this is a smart investment or a missed opportunity.