'He has big qualities': What Manchester United captain said about West Brom loan 'gem' Toby Collyer

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder has been the subject of much speculation for a number of weeks - with claims that a 'dozen' clubs had registered interest in taking him on loan.

Having made 13 senior appearances for Manchester United - there was talk of becoming a serious contender to step up at Old Trafford this season.

But having impressed on their pre-season tour - it soon emerged that United were looking to send him out on loan to gain valuable first team experience.

Sheffield Wednesday and Hull City were both named as potential front runners - before it emerged on Thursday that Albion were in advanced talks to sign the midfielder.

The deal was confirmed on Friday - with the England youth midfielder in contention for a potential debut at Wrexham on Saturday.

All the noises around Collyer underline how highly he is rated at Old Trafford, not just by the coaches, but his fellow team mates aswell.

Back in January, his captain Bruno Fernandes outlined how highly he rates the former Brighton youngster and the qualities that he brings.

He said: "Toby doesn't need help, if I'm being honest. He is a great kid, a great example of a professional.

“He comes from the academy and knows his place, knows how much he wants to get into the positions of other players. He trains very well every week, trains at the maximum level every time.

“He's a really good kid who wants to learn. He's eager to listen and has big, big qualities. He's aggressive off and on the ball, he's class in tight spaces, and he's just going to get better." 

What will Toby Collyer bring to Albion?

Despite their struggles in recent times - landing a player of his quality from a club like United is a real statement for Albion.

And even more so because of how highly thought of Collyer is.

A youngster at Brighton from the age of 12 - he went on to rise through the ranks before attracting interest from the likes of Chelsea.

But following an impressive trial at Old Trafford, he went on to sign a professional deal at United.

Describing as a 'dynamic' midfielder, Collyer's main position is as a defensive midfielder, and he is described as good at taking possession under pressure.

Multiple reports outline Collyer as a versatile midfielder, with the ability to not only break up play but be a box to box midfielder as well.

It is easy to see why Albion have made their move. In the opening games of the season, we have seen how Ryan Mason likes to set up his teams in teams of taking the ball in tight areas and playing from the back.

And we have seen an increase in the amount of players Albion are getting forward when they do get into advanced areas. It seems Collyer ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to how Mason wants his side to play.