Cambridge United are pleased to announce the signing of West Bromwich Albion centre-back Kyle Howkins on a six month loan deal.
The 21-year old, who signed for the Premier Club as an 11-year old before progressing through the Baggies Academy, joins the U's to bring additional depth to Head Coach Shaun Derry's defensive options.
Although yet to make a senior appearance for West Brom, Howkins has gained valuable experience during loans with Kidderminster Harriers in 2015/16 and more recently Mansfield Town where he made 16 appearances.
Howkins will team up with Cambridge United ahead of the U's opening home fixture of the 2017/18 season against Carlisle United at the Cambs Glass Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Commenting on the capture of the young centre-half, Head Coach Shaun Derry commented: "Bringing Kyle into our group certainly adds competition to our defence.
"Having already experienced the demands and physicality of League Two with his previous loan at Mansfield Town, we feel he will settle into our Football Club very quickly.
"He compliments the players we already have in that department of the field, with his major attributes being his pace and power."