Bees complete signing of defender Collins

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Brentford have completed the signing of centre-back Nathan Collins from Wolves for £23m.

Republic of Ireland international Collins, 22, has signed a six-year contract.

The Bees were keen to sign a central defender this summer following Pontus Jansson’s recent departure.


Collins joined Wolves from Burnley for just over £20m last summer and made 26 Premier League appearances last season – seven of them as a substitute.

“I’m very pleased we’ve managed to sign Nathan,” said Brentford head coach Thomas Frank.

“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.

“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.”

Meanwhile, young winger Alex Gilbert has completed a move from Brentford to Championship side Middlesbroigh.