Collins set for Tykes switch

Collins: Set for Barnsley move

Barnsley are set to complete the loan signing of defender Lee Collins from troubled League Two side Port Vale with a view to a permanent deal.

The 23-year-old, who can operate as a left-back or in central defence, is undergoing a medical at Oakwell and hopes to be involved in Saturday's home game with Reading.

Collins has made 162 appearances for Port Vale, who are currently in administration, after starting his career at Wolves, where he failed to appear for the first team, before moving on to Hereford.

A statement on Vale's official website said: "Port Vale can confirm that the club is currently in negotiations with Championship club Barnsley about a possible loan move for Lee Collins.

"However, no deal for the defender has yet been completed."

Barnsley manager Keith Hill has wasted little time in drafting in defensive reinforcements as defenders Bobby Hassell (knee) and Rob Edwards (hamstring) are both out injured, as are midfielders Jacob Butterfield, David Perkins (both knee) and winger Jim O'Brien (groin).