FWIW, until two years ago I had a 2012 Intel MBPro running dual 24" 1080p displays on my desk. I used to use it with the laptop closed (get a vertical stand for it in that case with the hinge pointed up, it will dissipate the heat better than if it's flat), but since video conferencing became much more important a couple of years ago, its replacement (2019 Intel MBPro) is now on a laptop shelf between the two monitors on the same armature, so I can use the built in camera and not have it pointed up my nostrils.
Three monitors, bluetooth keyboard/trackpad.
No sweat.
Monitor stand:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Z7ZWC6S/
Laptop shelf:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B092L948LP/
If you're connecting / disconnecting a lot, a dock is a nice extra.
709's advice is spot on, The top of my laptop screen is in-line with the top edge of the monitors, so it acts much like one big screen.