Ireland under-19 star Nathan Collins signs new five-year deal with Stoke City

Republic of Ireland under-19 international Nathan Collins has pledged his future to Stoke City by signing a new five-year deal with the English Championship side.

Collins, who made three league appearances for the Potters at the tail end of last season, has attracted attention from the likes of Premier League Manchester United in recent months.

The 18-year-old was reportedly recommended to Man United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer by Darren Fletcher, with whom he played at the Britannia Stadium last season.

Stoke manager Nathan Jones opted to withdraw the centre-half from the UEFA European Under-19 Championships last month in order that he continue pre-season with the Staffordshire club.

Collins, who is the brother of UCD centre-back Josh, and son and nephew respectively of former Ireland under-21 internationals Dave and Eamonn, has been heavily involved in recent friendlies.

“Nathan is a very talented young man,” Jones told the club’s website.

"He’s not the finished article by any means and he still has a great deal to learn but anyone who has seen him play will recognise he has great ability and potential.

“He’s willing to learn, which is the most important thing, and we’re delighted that he sees his long-term future with us.”

Stoke chief executive Tony Scholes added: “Nathan has made tremendous progress since joining us from Cherry Orchard two years ago.

“He’s a very mature individual, as he has shown with his performances for the first team, and we are convinced he has a big future ahead of him.”