Liverpool’s Centre-Again Pursuit: Marc Guehi or Nathan Collins?
Liverpool’s centre-back search has grow to be a scorching subject, with the membership persevering with to be linked to varied Premier League defenders. Whereas Marc Guehi stays the first goal, a possible various has emerged in Nathan Collins. In a latest report by , sources have recommended that Liverpool have recognized the Brentford captain as a viable possibility if their pursuit of Guehi falls via. Right here, we delve deeper into the 2 gamers and assess what they might deliver to Anfield within the last stretch of the summer season switch window.
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Marc Guehi: The Main Goal
Liverpool’s hopes of signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace have been bolstered by feedback from Eagles chairman Steve Parish, who has publicly acknowledged the necessity to resolve the defender’s future swiftly. With Guehi coming into the ultimate 12 months of his contract, Liverpool’s curiosity in him is seen as a logical transfer.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Guehi is more likely to transfer this month, and Liverpool shall be trying to benefit from the state of affairs. His standing as a longtime Premier League participant, his management qualities, and his potential homegrown standing make him a fascinating goal. The truth that his contract state of affairs makes him a extra reasonably priced goal than others solely provides to his enchantment.
Picture: IMAGO
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As essentially the most coveted centre-back for Liverpool, Guehi’s acquisition would supply the staff with expertise, versatility, and management on the again. His familiarity with Premier League soccer is essential, and his capacity to fit into the Liverpool squad may very well be seamless. With the Reds needing extra than simply three senior centre-backs, Guehi could be the right match.
Nathan Collins: The Different Choice
If the Guehi deal doesn’t materialise, Liverpool have recognized Nathan Collins as a possible Plan B. The Brentford captain has emerged as a powerful various, together with his management and defensive skills drawing the eye of the Anfield hierarchy. In line with Empire of the Kop, sources near the membership reveal that whereas no official bid has been made, Collins is firmly on their radar.
At simply 24 years previous, Collins has already made a reputation for himself within the Premier League, incomes reward for his constant performances. His management skills had been acknowledged by Brentford, who’ve dubbed him a “born chief” on their official web site. Collins additionally boasts spectacular statistics for core defensive metrics, rating among the many prime gamers in Europe for blocks, clearances, and aerial duels gained. His strong performances final season make him an interesting prospect, particularly when contemplating the defensive gaps Liverpool presently face.
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With a contract that runs till 2029, Collins’ worth is predicted to be within the vary of €40m-€45m (£34.6m-£39m), which locations him in the same value bracket to Guehi. Nonetheless, the Irishman’s long-term deal at Brentford and his standing as membership captain make him a tougher participant to accumulate, particularly with the potential for him to play a backup function at Anfield. The prospect of swapping a captaincy function at Brentford for a rotation spot at Liverpool may very well be a tough promote.
Guehi vs Collins: A Choice for Liverpool
Liverpool are clearly eyeing two proficient and confirmed Premier League defenders to bolster their squad earlier than the shut of the switch window. Whereas Guehi stays their main goal, Collins affords an intriguing various, with the added bonus of his management capabilities. Nonetheless, his potential to suit into the Liverpool squad is likely to be extra restricted, as he would probably discover it troublesome to take a backseat to the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.
Each defenders deliver strengths to the desk, however it stays to be seen which one will finally be a part of the Reds. With Liverpool’s centre-back depth presently restricted, securing a participant of both calibre will surely enhance their defensive choices.
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Our View – Anfield Index Evaluation
As Liverpool followers, there’s purpose for cautious optimism, but additionally some wholesome skepticism. Nathan Collins might have potential, however one should wonder if he can actually adapt to life at Liverpool if his function is more likely to be as a backup. In spite of everything, the Reds are a staff that competes for trophies, and his transfer to Anfield may very well be a step backwards in his profession, given his established function as Brentford’s captain.
Furthermore, the thought of getting three senior centre-backs in an period the place accidents can hit at any time feels dangerous. With Joe Gomez’s Achilles damage nonetheless looming giant, the membership must safe a extra dependable possibility. Whereas Guehi is actually a extra splendid goal together with his expertise and contract state of affairs, there’s a nagging concern that different golf equipment could also be eyeing him too, probably pushing the worth larger or making the deal much more sophisticated.
In some ways, this seems like a last-minute scramble for a centre-back after we know the squad’s wants ought to have been addressed earlier in the summertime. Arne Slot’s problem is to discover a defender who can supply the identical stage of high quality and management that Virgil van Dijk supplies, with out having to attend till late within the switch window.
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Finally, Liverpool followers shall be hoping the Reds can pull off a deal for both participant, however the clock is ticking, and the stakes are excessive. Solely time will inform if this can be a sensible funding or a missed alternative.