Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly monitoring Brentford defender Nathan Collins and could reunite the Irishman with his former Bees boss Thomas Frank.
TEAMtalk reports that Spurs will look to use the January transfer window to sign a new centre-back, and Collins is a potential option. He has become one of the most reliable central defenders in the top-flight, and that's largely thanks to Frank.
The 24-year-old not only offers a ball-playing profile that has earned plaudits, but he's a leader at the back, handed the captain's armband at the Gtech. He has just under four years left on his contract, but could be tempted to link up with his former manager.
Tottenham Eyeing Brentford's 'Best Centre-Back' Collins
Spurs' interest in Collins comes amid the club's belief that their defence needs strengthening due to Frank's cautious approach over Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven's workload. The defensive duo were struck by the North Londoners' injury crisis last season, and the Lilywhites won't want to run into a similar situation.
Collins 'six-foot-four-inch frame was of real use to Frank in his Brentford side that pulled off plenty of surprises during his tenure. The Dane described him as the Bees' "best centre-back" last season, and he isn't the only Premier League boss who is a fan.
Arsenal were reportedly keeping tabs on the Republic of Ireland international at the end of last season after Mikel Arteta talked up the defensive system put in place by Frank at the Gtech. The towering centre half was at the heart of this, putting out fires while proving a real handful in set-piece situations.
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Nathan Collins registered two goals and six assists in 38 Premier League games last season