Collins put up for sale by Wolves

The 25-year-old signed a four-year deal this time last year, but has failed to make the 24-man tour party for Australia.

Collins fell down the pecking order following the arrival of Christophe Berra in January, coupled with the return to form and fitness of Jody Craddock.

Since then, Ronald Zubar has arrived from Marseille and McCarthy still wants to sign another centre-back, with Bobo Balde on trial and Chelsea's Michael Mancienne a long-term loan target.

But at least Collins will leave with a glowing testimonial from McCarthy.

The manager said: "Neill will move on, just like Jason Shackell and Darren Ward. I want to sell him – Neill doesn't want to be going out on loan.

"He's been brilliant for us, but he needs to go and play football.

"There's nothing in the offing for him to my knowledge, but he'd get into any Championship side. Half of them would make him their captain if he went there.

"I said the same about Rob Edwards and I wasn't wrong – he went to Blackpool and became their captain. Neill will do the same.

"He has been excellent, but hasn't been in the team and you just need to change things from time to time."

Collins has made 81 League appearances for Wolves since making his loan move permanent in January 2007, with a £150,000 switch from Sunderland.

He has scored eight goals, including the winner at Doncaster last season.

But he hasn't played since scoring the own goal that saw the team lose 1-0 at Reading in January.