Burnley will have a fight on their hands this summer to retain defender Nathan Collins for the season ahead.

The Irishman received plaudits for his form at the end of the season, which has caught the attention of a number of Premier League clubs.

That has seen the 21-year old linked with a possible move to the Premier League, with Talksport reporting that Aston Villa are interested in the centre back.

Is it a good potential move?

This would be an excellent signing for Aston Villa if they can ward off the likes of Wolves and Leeds United in the race to sign the defender.

The pairing of Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa could use the added competition to provide greater cover in defence for Steven Gerrard.

The former Liverpool player’s Rangers side were built on a strong defensive line, so adding someone like Collins should help strengthen Villa’s current options.

It would be a big blow for Burnley to lose Collins.

Would he start?

Collins should be seen as a definite potential starter for Villa, with Mings’ position in the team likely up for grabs.

The England international has made too many mistakes this season and has been costly for Villa at times.

 

 

The Villa defender is now also 29-years old, so Collins will bring greater long-term stability to the team at only 21.

While Mings may retain his place to start the season, it would come as no surprise to see Collins usurp him in the squad by the end of this year should he sign for Villa.

What does he offer?

Collins has all the tools needed for a quality modern centre back. He is comfortable with the ball at his feet, reads the game well, is strong in the air and can even move forward in possession quite well as evidenced by his spectacular solo effort for Ireland against Ukraine midweek.

His biggest issue may come down to pace, but that should not be seen as a huge concern for Gerrard.

What’s more is that the Irishman also has plenty of room to keep improving, and has the potential to become a top defender in the Premier League, giving him great resale value for the future.