Collingwood has added firepower to its attack with the signing of tall forward Nathan Kreuger from Geelong.

Kreuger, who was sought by the Magpies 12 months ago, swaps horizontal hoops for vertical black and white stripes as part of a deal that also involves a switch of draft picks with the Cats.

Collingwood has received Kreuger and pick 55 in the upcoming AFL national in exchange for selection 41. Krueger arrives at the Pies following three seasons with Geelong.

The 22-year-old made his debut in round 20 this season against North Melbourne and went on to play two games. At 196cm tall, he was recruited out of Adelaide as a forward but played key back for the Cats. Kreuger thanked Geelong for his time at Kardinia Park.

“Geelong gave me my first chance and I’ll be forever grateful for that,” Kreuger said.

“I thank those who nurtured me and showed me the way and I know they understand why Collingwood is the right place for me to take my career. I’m really looking forward to fitting in with a young group and experiencing the Collingwood way.”

Collingwood GM of Football, Graham Wright, welcomed Kreuger to the Holden Centre.

“Collingwood has had an interest in Nathan for some time. We like his athleticism and speed and, at 22 years of age, he can grow with our program,” Wright said.

“He is versatile and someone who, with his aerial abilities, can complement Brody Mihocek and Darcy Cameron and our other tall forwards.

“We’re very happy to have him on board.”