Source: SKY_Sports
Zola confirms Collins interest
// A bit of a hack but it works// The article snippet is wrapped onto a second line, even when #article-sub is emptyif( $("div#article-sub").children().length == 0 ) {$("div#article-sub").remove();} West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola has confirmed Aston Villa have shown an interest in signing James Collins.[LNB] 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]Villa manager Martin O'Neill 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]
