Nathan Collins has completed a move to Brentford from Wolves for a reported fee of £23million.

Though still only 22 years old, the West Londoners will be the fourth club that the central defender has represented in his short career, along with Stoke and Burnley. 

Ahead of the Bees' pre-season campaign, we take a look at what Collins will bring to his latest team. 

Irish rover

A young player having represented so many clubs at such an early stage of their career is not always a good sign. 

Yet with Collins, it has been a case of his potential combining with circumstances to see him become prematurely well-travelled. 

Starting his career in the Championship with Stoke, the Republic of Ireland international moved up into the Premier League by joining Burnley for £12m in 2021. 

When the Clarets were relegated at the end of the 2021-22 season, Wolves kept the defender in the top flight when they paid £20.5m for his services.

Collins was not always a regular in the second half of last term, so the Midlands club cashed in on him — and made a small profit.

In terms of his development, a period of stability would surely be useful and Brentford seem to be the perfect home to provide a nurturing environment. 

New home

Since moving up into the Premier League, Collins has faced difficult seasons with clubs fighting for survival. 

But now he has joined the Bees, who finished 13th and ninth in their two seasons in the top flight and are committed to playing a brand of football which should suit the classy centre-back. 

After making the move to London, Collins spoke about his decision to join the progressive side. 

He said: "I talked with the manager and a few of the backroom staff about the project here. It's a club on the rise and I can see where they want to go. It's exciting to be here. 

"I like to play football. I want to dribble, play and create. It starts at the back. I can play long balls and short balls. 

"But, at the end of the day, I'm a defender and I have to head the ball, win it and win my challenges. 

"Me and Thomas Frank have talked a lot. He's said what he likes about me and has a plan in place." 

Frank verdict

While Collins has the ability to play out from the back, the fact he was signed by former Burnley manager Sean Dyche means he can defend as well.

His new boss Frank clearly sees both traits in his recruit. 

The Bees chief said: "He has a lot of very good abilities that we value a lot. He's a composed and calm defender. 

"His heading in both boxes is a big thing, both in open play and from set-pieces, which is massive in the Premier League. 

"I also like his ability on the ball. He can carry the ball out of defence and also has the composure to find the right pass during build-up play. 

"His character is really good, and we know that character is everything. He will fit into our culture, I have no doubt about that. 

"I see leadership potential in Nathan. He's a perfect Brentford player. Hungry and ambitious with a desire to learn."