Burnley have completed the signing of Republic of Ireland U21 defender Nathan Collins.
The Premier League club have paid Stoke City a reported £12million (€14m) for the 20-year old centre-back.
Collins' move makes him the joint seventh most expensive Republic of Ireland player of all time, and the most expensive not to have won a cap.
He's signed a four-year deal at Turf Moor, with the option of another twelve months.
"Everything about it is top drawer. It’s massive. It’s what I want to do,” Collins said of his step up from the Championship.
"I want to play in the Premier League. It’s going to be a jump but I think I can be ready for it.
“Every season they go into it, Burnley look dangerous. They can always hurt teams and it’s a really attractive team to come and play for.
“I want a challenge. That’s why I play football – to challenge myself and I can’t wait to get going.
“I want to play big games, I want to play against these players – I really can’t wait.
“Looking at Burnley, looking at what they’ve done in the last few seasons and what they want for the future; everything played a part.
“I think they do have big expectations at this club and I want to be part of it.”
Collins made his Stoke debut in the 2018-19 season, and was named the Potters' youngest ever captain by the start of the following campaign.
Before moving to Burnley, he'd made 49 first team appearances for Stoke.
Collins will provide competition for incumbent centre-backs James Tarkowski and Ben Mee.
"Even watching them last season, they are really good, the way they talk to each other and the way they play," he said.
"I think they have really big roles in this team and is something to look up to.
“The gaffer here has improved many players before, which is another part of why I came to this club.
“I think I’m ready but I just want to improve myself. I want to get better and help this team. I can’t wait to get going for pre-season.”
Collins' arrival is likely to herald the exit of another Ireland U21 international in Jimmy Dunne.
The former Manchester United defender made seven appearances last term, but his deal is set to expire next week.
Preston North End are rumoured suitors of Dunne's.
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