FORMER Shaker Sam Collins is set to sign for Second Division Port Vale.

The 25-year-old defender was released from Gigg Lane at the end of last season as part of Bury's massive cost-cutting exercise but has not had long to wait for offers.

Valiants boss Brian Horton has offered him a two-year contract, which he is expected to sign by the start of next month.

"We've held talks with Sam and his agent today. They've been good talks so hopefully there's a pretty good chance he will come here," said Horton.

"I've had him before as a player at Huddersfield, he's played a lot of First Division football for his age and I'm very, very confident that he will join us.

"He's a big centre-back who can throw the ball a mile. I signed him on a good contract at Huddersfield because I thought he could get to the top, and I still think he's got the ability to.

"We've had good talks with the chairman and hopefully he will join us on 1st July. He's got to talk to his family before he comes to a decision, but I'm quite confident he will come."

Collins, who made 90 appearances for Bury after signing from the Terriers in July 1999, said other clubs were queueing up for his signature.

"I've played for Brian before at Huddersfield and I really enjoyed working with him there," he said.

"I did really well for him so, if things go well and I decide to sign, it'll carry on how it was then.

"In the past two or three years I feel I have grown up as a footballer. Working with Brian again will just bring everything back out in me like it did before when he had me at Huddersfield. I think I will become an even better player.

"There are other clubs interested but I've got a wife and two young children, so there's a lot to think about. It's a worrying time so I've got to talk to my wife and I've got a lot to decide, but with Brian Horton being here it will have a bearing."