Mansfield Town have signed defender Kyle Howkins on a six-month loan deal from Premier League West Bromwich Albion.

The 20-year-old, who has been at the Hawthorns since the age of 11, linked up with his new team mates earlier today during a training session at One Call Stadium.

The centre half gained first-team experience last season on loan at Kidderminster Harriers in the National League.

Stags’ boss Adam Murray said: “I have watched Kyle over a period of time and with the important experience which he gained last year on loan at Kidderminster, as well as his involvement with West Brom’s first team this pre-season, I felt the time was right to try and secure his services.

“At 6ft 5in, he has the physical attributes, tremendous speed and obviously the football background of being at a Premier League Club to be effective at League 2 and I can’t wait to work with him.

“For someone of Kyle’s stature, his technical ability is very high and this will fit into our philosophy.

“We know that there were another couple of League 1 clubs who were ready to pounce and I thank our chairman for allowing me to get this deal over the line in quick time.

“With the infrastructure at West Brom, we know that Kyle has a good pedigree as well as high values and morals instilled in him.

“We thank West Brom for their help in this deal.”