Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for a Premier League captain this summer, but it may not be who fans would expect.
Despite Michael Carrick’s future at United remaining uncertain, with the head coach contracted to the club until the end of the 2025/26 campaign, the Red Devils appear to be planning for this summer’s transfer window.
With Casemiro’s time at the club set to end following the climax of the current campaign, recruiting a central midfielder is a priority for United’s football department. At the same time, a move for a left-back has also been rumoured.
Meanwhile, as reported by TeamTalk, the 20-time Premier League champions are keen on Brentford centre-back and captain Nathan Collins.
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The Republic of Ireland international has been a mainstay in the Bees’ side since joining from Wolves in 2023, making 109 appearances for the London club, with his consistent performances impressing suitors at Old Trafford.
However, United may face competition if they choose to pursue the defender this summer, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Spurs all interested in the player, and scouts from those clubs regularly tracking his progress.
TeamTalk reports that Brentford value Collins at at least £55 million, while making it clear that the Irishman is firmly part of Keith Andrews’ plans as the club push for European qualification.
Leixlip-born Collins came through the ranks at Stoke City before going on to make his senior debut for the Potters in 2019. He went on to make 47 appearances for the Championship side before signing for Burnley in 2021.
A year later, he arrived at Wolves, where he spent one season before joining Brentford in a £23 million deal.
Despite being linked with a move away from Brentford, Collins was quick to state how pleased he is with the Bees’ progress this season when he spoke to the Mail in December, while also claiming that the club has a “family vibe” under Andrews’ tutelage.
“As soon as I came here, I felt that family vibe,” said Collins. “The staff make it easy for players to feel comfortable and get on with football. It is such a family club and that’s a reason why I love it so much.
“The dressing room culture has been worked on for years and even though players have left, you carry on doing the same stuff. The squad is full of good people. I could sit there with anybody and have a conversation for an hour. That is such a strong thing to have.”
When asked whether Brentford can become a fixture in the Premier League’s top ten in the coming seasons, he replied: “I don’t like to look too far ahead.
“I just want to play as much as I can and win as many games as possible.
“You always want to do better than last season and we have lots to improve on, but so far it’s not been too bad.”
The 24-year-old is contracted to Brentford until 2029 and currently earns £30,000 per week, equal to £1.5 million per year.
Topics: Manchester United, Transfer News, Premier League, Brentford, Football
Luke Davies