Manchester United are expected to make significant changes to their defence, with several established players approaching the end of their current contracts.
Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martínez and Harry Maguire are all due to see their deals expire in 2027, leaving the club facing important decisions over the future of their backline.
Recent reports have suggested that recruiting a new centre-back is among United's priorities. Fulham defender Calvin Bassey has previously been linked with a possible move to Old Trafford, while Brentford captain Collins has now emerged as another reported target.
According to the Daily Mail, United have added the Republic of Ireland international to their list of potential defensive recruits.
The 25-year-old has become an important figure at Brentford since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023. He has established himself as a regular at the heart of the defence and has also taken on the responsibility of captaining the club.
Collins has made 124 competitive appearances for Brentford, scoring eight goals and providing nine assists. His contribution at both ends of the pitch has made him an influential member of the squad.
He has also become a regular for the Republic of Ireland, for whom he has scored three goals in 40 international appearances.
His contract at Brentford runs until 2029, with the club holding an option to extend it by a further two years. That agreement gives Brentford a strong position should interest from United develop into a formal approach.
The reported interest in Collins comes as United assess their longer-term defensive options. With Martínez and Maguire approaching the final months of their contracts, the club may need more than one addition to ensure sufficient depth.
Bassey remains another name linked with the club, meaning United are reportedly considering options from within the Premier League rather than limiting their search to overseas markets.
There has been no confirmation of a bid or formal negotiations for Collins. For now, the Brentford captain is one of several defenders being considered as United plan for a potentially significant rebuilding job in 2027.