Overview

• Brentford have firmly ruled out selling captain Nathan Collins after naming him skipper and losing multiple key players this summer.
• Marc Guehi has emerged as Liverpool’s preferred defensive recruit given his final year at Crystal Palace and willingness to push for a move.
• Crystal Palace owner Steve Parish cautioned that Guehi could be sold if he does not agree to a contract extension.
• The Reds’ backline depth has been tested by Jarell Quansah’s departure and ongoing doubt over Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term plans.
• Liverpool face mounting pressure to complete a central-defensive signing before the window shuts later this month.