The Lower Tiers understands that Barnsley has rejected a bid of £3.5m from Championship side Bristol City. The bid tabled by The Robins also includes winger Sam Bell.
The Championship side made the approach as they look to add a powerful, goal‑ready forward before the window closes, but Barnsley were unwilling to part with Cleary.
The young winger has become central to their attacking plans.
The refusal underlines how highly the club value the 21‑year‑old, despite the significant cash‑plus‑player package on the table.
Sam Bell’s 2025–26 campaign has been a tale of two halves, beginning with a productive loan spell at Wycombe Wanderers before returning to Bristol City in January and immediately forcing his way into Championship minutes.
At Wycombe he delivered 6 goals in 21 appearances, showing sharp movement, direct running and a growing confidence in front of goal.
That form earned him a recall, and since returning to Ashton Gate he has featured regularly, making four Championship appearances and scoring once, with an overall season rating of 6.88. Bell’s standout performances come against Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth.
Bell’s shot profile is efficient. He had four shots, all on target, producing 0.42 xG and a well‑taken fast‑break goal.
Compared to other wide forwards, Bell ranks highly for shot volume (54%), goals (75%), and aerial duels (84%)
Reyes Cleary’s season, by contrast, has been built on consistent starts, physical dominance, and sustained goal threat.
Cleary has become central to Barnsley’s attack, playing far more minutes than Bell and carrying a heavier scoring burden.
His profile this season is built on power, hold‑up play, and penalty‑box presence; the kind of forward who pins centre‑backs, links play, and generates high‑value chances.
While Bell offers versatility across the front line, Cleary provides a focal point.
Furthermore, his goal output, chance creation, and involvement in The Tyke’s attacking phases have been strong enough that the club rejected a package of Sam Bell + £3.5m.
This is a clear sign of how integral Cleary has become for the Reds.
Sam Bell’s 25/26 season shows a player who makes a real impact in short bursts, producing goals, assists and strong match ratings despite limited minutes.
Reyes Cleary, by contrast, has delivered consistent starts, heavier involvement and a far bigger influence on Barnsley’s attack across the whole campaign.
Bell offers flashes of quality for The Robins. However, Cleary provides week‑to‑week reliability, and a player with high potential. Which, is exactly why Barnsley refused the swap.
