Burnley have completed the signing of highly-rated Stoke centre-back Nathan Collins. The 20-year-old has joined the Clarets for an undisclosed fee, believed to be at least £12million, signing a four-year deal with the option of a further year. He arrives at Turf Moor having made 49 first-team appearances for Stoke, 39 of those in the Championship.
Nathan Collins said: “I want to play in the Premier League. It’s going to be a jump but I think I can be ready for it. Every season they go into it, Burnley look dangerous. They can always hurt teams and it’s a really attractive team to come and play for. I want a challenge. That’s why I play football – to challenge myself and I can’t wait to get going. I want to play big games, I want to play against these players – I really can’t wait. Looking at Burnley, looking at what they’ve done in the last few seasons and what they want for the future; everything played a part. I think they do have big expectations at this club and I want to be part of it.”
The Republic of Ireland youth international, who can also play at right back, was wanted by the Clarets in January and now they have got their man. He last played in February due to a foot injury but is now back to full fitness. And Collins may not be the only defender to arrive in this window with Burnley also linked with Liverpool’s Nat Phillips after his Anfield breakthrough last season.
