The Lower Tiers understands that Barnsley FC are on the verge of announcing former striker Tom Bradshaw. The Welshman will be brought in from Oxford United, where he has only made 5 appearances.
Bradshaw’s return comes at an interesting moment for the club. At 33, he brings experience, familiarity and a proven track record at Oakwell, but his recent spell at Oxford has been stop‑start. Bradshaw’s minutes have been limited and rhythm hard to find.
His best football came earlier in his career; including a productive stint with Barnsley.
However, the move suggests the club believe he still has enough sharpness and movement to contribute in the run‑in.
From a squad‑building perspective, the signing raises fair questions. Barnsley have leaned heavily on younger forwards this season, and the arrival of a veteran striker signals a shift toward short‑term reliability over long‑term development.
Bradshaw’s pressing instincts, link‑up play and penalty‑box nous remain valuable traits, but whether he can deliver them consistently after a quiet spell at Oxford is something supporters will watch closely.
Still, there’s logic behind the move. Barnsley have lacked a natural poacher in recent weeks, and Bradshaw’s instinctive finishing and ability to find pockets inside the box offer something different to the current options.
His understanding of the club, the league and the demands of a promotion chase also carry weight, especially in a squad that has leaned on emerging talent.
If Bradshaw can rediscover even a portion of the form he showed in his first spell at Oakwell, this could prove a smart, low‑risk addition. If not, it will be viewed as a nostalgic gamble at a time when Barnsley can’t afford many missteps. Either way, it’s a move that will generate debate. Placing pressure on both player and club to make the reunion count.
Keep an eye on this one!
