Leeds learn Burnley demanding impressive Nathan Collins profit, as two more Prem clubs join hunt

Leeds United will reportedly have to pay £25million for Nathan Collins, more than double what Burnley paid for the defender last summer.

The Whites are looking to bolster all across the pitch as they aim to avoid another dramatic relegation scrap. They have made a solid start to the transfer window, with midfield a key area of recruitment.

But manager Jesse Marsch knows there is more work to do to get his team back on the right track. Defence is therefore another area which the American has focused on.

Leeds have already added a right-back to their ranks in Rasmus Kristensen and they now want a centre-back.

Previous reports have revealed how the Elland Road club and Newcastle are keen on Burnley’s Ireland international Collins.

According to the latest from the Daily Mirror (18/06, 11:24am), the Clarets want £25million for the 21-year-old.

That amounts to over double the £12million they paid Stoke to sign Collins in the summer of 2021.

Burnley, led by new manager Vincent Kompany, are looking to reshape their squad following relegation to the Championship.

They are subsequently prepared to lose Collins, but believe he can command a top fee and they will not let him leave on the cheap.

Collins played 19 Premier League games last season, growing into the campaign with more minutes as it went on.

And after making his senior Ireland debut in October last year, he played every minute of his country’s four recent Nations League matches.

The Daily Mirror adds that, as well as Leeds and Newcastle, Aston Villa and Wolves are keen on Collins.

Nathan Collins a man in demand

Burnley are willing to lose Collins, but they are insistent that they will make a significant profit on him.

It remains unclear whether Leeds will stump up the £25million needed for him, but Newcastle can certainly afford that fee.

Indeed, they have been going after deals for Sven Botman and previous reports have claimed they have agreed a £35million fee for the Dutchman with Lille.

Villa have also been splashing the cash this summer but one of their marquee signings so far is at centre-back in Diego Carlos, formerly of Sevilla.

Wolves’ focus is currently on trying to sign Sporting midfielder Joao Palhinha. However, their defence dropped off towards the end of last season and could do with a refresh.

Having made his Premier League breakthrough last season, it looks as though Collins could return to the top flight this summer.