Source: Team_Talk
Zola: Villans in hunt for Collins
The Wales international has been tracked by Stoke City in recent weeks, with Tony Pulis having been hopeful of luring the defender to the Britannia Stadium.[LNB]However, Villa have now emerged as favourites to sign Collins in a £5million deal before the close of the transfer window on Tuesday.[LNB]Collins' performance in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Blackburn Rovers was praised by Zola, who also admitted the centre-half could be leaving West Ham.[LNB]"James was really good, to be honest," said Zola. "He played a good game. [LNB]"Considering the rumours around him, his concentration is 100 per cent spot on.[LNB]"Villa have said they are interested in him, so we'll see what happens."[LNB]Matthew Upson has also been linked with a move away from Upton Park and Italian side Fiorentina are the latest club to show an interest in the England centre-back Matthew.[LNB]The Hammers are understood to be aware of the interest from the Serie A side but would only be willing to sell the 30-year-old defender for an offer they deem suitable or to a Champions League team.[LNB]Villa manager Martin O'Neill, meanwhle, has been looking to improve his defensive options over the summer after losing Martin Laursen to retirement and selling Zat Knight to Bolton.[LNB]A £6million deal has been agreed with Manchester City for Richard Dunne and Collins could join the Irishman in heading to Villa Park.[LNB][LNB]
