Date: 31st May 2022 at 10:35am
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Journalist Conor McGilligan thinks it would be a smart decision if Leeds United were to stave off a number of other Premier League rivals to the signing of Burnley’s Nathan Collins this summer.

Collins, who joined from Stoke in the summer of 2021, has impressed at the back for Burnley, who were relegated at the Whites’ expense on the final day. It now seems the Yorkshire giants are back to rub salt in the wound as they are one of many circling the 21-year-old.

The Irish international managed 19 appearances for the Clarets this season and scored twice. His physicality makes him a natural for the Premier League, and he would provide further cover for Leeds who have been left bare at the back on occasion this season due to injuries.

Speaking to One Leeds, McGilligan was full of praise for the youngster with a bright future:

“He’s been great for Burnley, and boy oh boy this guy is going to go onto very, very good things. Apparently, Newcastle, Everton, and Leeds are in for Nathan Collins’ transfer this window. Keep an eye on that one”.

His former boss Sean Dyche was also an admirer of his, who commended his “excellent professionalism” that has allowed him to mould into “what’s needed to be a player in the Premier League.

Our thoughts on Collins being linked with Leeds…

Leeds United struggled last season all over the pitch, however, it was their defence that really let them down. Last season, the Whites’ defence only leaked more goals than rock-bottom Norwich City.

Club captain Liam Cooper was a notable absentee at the back, who missed almost the entire second half of the season due to a hamstring injury. Collins has proved that he can deputise for injured leaders, as he filled the role of Tarkowski during his stint on the sidelines for Burnley.

Leeds could do worse than signing a battle-hardened 21-year-old with experience in a tough Burnley side that was in an even tougher situation. His steely resolve could ensure Leeds avoid being in this kind of position again, as he sits in the 98th percentile for blocks per 90, and in the 97th percentile for aerials won, all compared to other defenders in the league.

To snap up a youngster with a bright future at a cut-price due to relegation would prove a shrewd signing for the Whites, who need to improve on a defensively terrible squad often ravaged by injuries.

In other news, Leeds are linked with a Champions League winger. Find out who here.

 

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