Aston Villa have offered James Collins the opportunity to train with Steve Bruce’s side, with the centre-back still a free agent in mid-September.

Collins left West Ham United at the start of the summer, and since then has been on the lookout for a new club.

The Welshman has been with Ipswich Town in recent weeks, but hasn’t been signed by the Portman Road club.

According to the Birmingham Mail, Villa have now moved to offer Collins a trial with the club.

Bruce is wanting to take a look at the 35-year-old, with the view to offering him a short-term contract in the Championship.

The same report claims that Collins, who is nursing a minor injury, favours a move back to Villa Park.

Villa have had a number of problems with their defence this season, only managing to keep one clean sheet.

John Terry, last season’s club captain, was never replaced, with James Chester featuring alongside Tommy Elphick, Axel Tuanzebe and Mile Jedinak already this season.

The latter appears to be Bruce’s centre-back of choice alongside Chester, much to the annoyance of many supporters, who feel Jedinak is better suited to a holding midfield role.

The Verdict  

Centre-back is a big problem for Villa, with Bruce seemingly noticing that now.

Collins would be a good addition, with the 35-year-old now having the opportunity to impress Villa.

At his best, Collins could be a good option on a short-term deal.

Thoughts? Let us know!

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