open menulivescore

Transfer Talk: Wolves bolster defence with Burnley star Collins
Copy icon

Sean Wilson
LiveScore
Defender Nathan Collins has joined Wolves on a five-year deal
Defender Nathan Collins has joined Wolves on a five-year deal

Nathan Collins impressed for Burnley in the Premier League last season — and turned plenty of heads as a result. 

Wolves were among his biggest admirers and the Midlands outfit have now confirmed his £20.5million capture on a five-year deal.

The Clarets' relegation to the Championship weakened their negotiating position and Vincent Kompany's side were always going to struggle to keep hold of the Irishman. 

We take a look at what Collins will bring to Bruno Lage's side. 

Defending deep

Collins was called into action frequently as part of a Burnley side who were often on the back foot last term. 

He is an effective defender in deep positions, completing 4.37 clearances per 90 minutes of league action and winning possession in the defensive third 4.21 times per 90. 

The 6ft 4in centre-half, 21, is also imperious in the air, winning a commendable 3.18 aerial duels per 90. 

That aerial ability is useful in the opposition area as well, with Collins proving himself a threat from set-pieces — scoring twice in 19 league appearances last season.

Tipped for the top

Burnley centre-half Nathan Collins defends his own third effectively
Burnley centre-half Nathan Collins defends his own third effectively

James Tarkowski, who has since swapped Burnley for Everton, heaped praise on Collins in May — hailing the youngster's potential. 

He said: "Collo's been exceptional. You forget how young he is because he looks so old but he's performed to an incredible level considering it's his first season in this league. 

"He's got huge potential. He's played a fair few games this year, way more than a lot of lads his age, and played really well. 

"It's still a learning experience for him, he's still got time to improve and bring his game on, but the level he's performing at now at such a young age, he can go right to the top for sure."

Tracked by Wolves

Burnley’s Nathan Collins impressed observers with his distribution from deep areas last term
Burnley’s Nathan Collins impressed observers with his distribution from deep areas last term

Wolves were looking to bolster their backline this summer and Collins was their No1 target.

Bruno Lage's men primarily fielded a back three last season, with Conor Coady, Max Kilman and Romain Saiss the usual first choices. 

However, the latter's departure left a gap in the squad that needed

Collins appears to be a natural fit. Wolves remain an effective counter-attacking team and the six-cap international is more than comfortable in a deep block.

Tags

Premier LeagueBurnleyWolverhampton WanderersChampionship
LiveScore logo

LiveScore: Live Sport Updates

Footbal Scores & Sports News

App storeGoogle play