Barnsley FC’s 2024/25 League One campaign ended with a 12th place finish. A position that, for a club with promotion aspirations, was undoubtably a disappointment.
A defensive record of 73 goals conceded stood out as a significant concern, highlighting a clear need for greater solidarity at the back.
Amidst the challenges, the individual brilliance of Davis Keillor-Dunn, who bagged 18 league goals for the Reds, as well as a breakout season for midfielder Jon Russel offered some of the season’s few bright sparks.
As the club embarks on a new chapter with former club captain and fan favourite Connor Hourihane at the helm, summer signings will be crucial in determining whether Barnsley can finally pull themselves out of League One.
This article looks at five targets, each offering a distinct profile to bolster key areas of the squad and add necessary personnel to fit the high pressing 4-3-3 Hourihane looks to implement.
Matteo Waem (Centre-Back)
- Nationality: Belgian
- Age: 25
- Current Club (2024/25): ADO Den Haag
- Contract Expiry: June 30th, 2026
2024/25 Season Statistics:
- 32 appearances, 2720 minutes played
- 3 goals, 1 assist
- 88.7% pass accuracy
- 66.7% tackles won
- 60.6% aerial duels won
Player Profile
Matteo Waem is a left footed central defender who combines robust defensive capabilities with effective ball distribution.
His elite pass accuracy (88.7%) indicates his comfort and proficiency in playing out from the back, a crucial attribute for how Barnsley will look to build attacks systematically under Hourihane’s new system.
Defensively, his engagement in duels is notable, winning 66.7% of his tackles and over 60% of his aerial duels, demonstrating the presence of a physical side to his game necessary to succeed in League One.
Given Barnsley’s defensive woes last season, Waem would offer a tangible solution to improving defensive solidarity, whilst still contributing to the forward first approach Hourihane is desperate to implement.
Irakli Yegoian (Central Midfielder)
- Nationality: Georgian
- Current Club (2024/25): Vitesse Arnhem
- Contract Expiry: June 30th, 2026 (Club option for 1 year)
2024/25 Season Statistics
- 36 appearances, 2725 minutes played
- 8 goals, 5 assists
Player Profile
Yegoian is a dynamic central midfielder capable of operating in both defensive and attacking roles.
His statistical output with 13 goal contributions from midfield displays frequent and direct impact on goal scoring opportunities.
His effective off ball movement and decision making in the final third make this youngster a real threat going forward.
With Barnsley potentially having to balance the books by letting some of their bigger names go this summer, Irakli could easily fill a hole in the Reds midfield.
Having recently featured for his country in the U21s Euros he’s definitely one for the future, and Barnsley would be wise to snap up this top talent before bigger clubs come sniffing.
If you’re not convinced yet, take a look at his goal of the month award winner from last October:
Rodney Elongo-Yombo (Left Winger)
- Nationality: German
- Age: 24
- Current Club (2024/25): Borussia Dortmund II
- Contract Expiry: Currently Free Agent
2024/25 Season Statistics:
- 37 appearances, 1677 minutes played
- 1 goal, 4 assists
- 21 chances created
- 32.7% successful dribbles
- 60% tackles won
Player Profile
Rodney Elongo-Yombo is a pacey, direct left winger who offers significant creative output, aligning with Hourihane’s desire for “exciting wingers”.
With the recent departure of Stephen Humphrys to Bradford and an injury to Fabio Jalo seeing him miss the start of the upcoming season, the Reds still look thin on wide options despite the recent signing of former West Brom man Reyes Cleary.
While his goal tally is modest, his assist tally and chances created display is quality as a provider for teammates.
With high successful dribble percentages his desire to beat his man is second to none. Elongo-Yombo is a player that will get bums off seats, something Hourihane has outlined as vital for getting the fans behind his squad.
This exciting young prospect doesn’t only boast an attacking threat either. With a 60% tackle success rate, he shows willingness and ability to contribute to a high intensity pressing system.
As a free agent, Elongo-Yombo presents a risk-free, cost-effective option for Barnsley that will provide immediate attacking depth and creative flare without breaking the bank.
Luke Molyneux (Right Winger/ Attacking Midfielder)
- Nationality: English
- Current Club (2024/25): Doncaster Rovers
- Contract Expiry: June 30th, 2027
2024/25 Season Statistics
- 42 Appearances, 3350 minutes played
- 16 goals, 12 assists
Player Profile
Not much needs to be said about Molyneux that hasn’t been said already, he’s my dream signing for Barnsley this window.
A versatile attacker with a proven record in front of goal in the EFL.
His 28 goal contributions for Doncaster played a huge role in their promotion to League One, something that will only raise his price tag even more.
If Barnsley learnt anything last season, it should be that paying a premium for proven players works. Keillor-Dunn justified his £800k price tag and more an I feel Molyneux would do the same.
If the Barnsley board had any intent going into this season, this man should be their number one priority.
Divin Mubama (Striker)
- Nationality: English
- Age: 20
- Current Club (2024/25): Man City
- Contract Expiry: N/A
2024/25 Season Statistics
- 16 appearances, 1378 minutes played
- 15 goals, 1 assist
Player Profile
Divin Mubama is a highly touted English prospect currently contracted to Manchester City, who acquired his services from West Ham for a total fee of £1.4 million.
His goal scoring record in Premier League 2 is exceptional, with 15 goals in 16 games proving he is far too good for U21s football.
A clinical finisher and powerful force on the ball, Divin is the perfect man to fill Barnsley’s hole up top.
To add to this, the 20-year-old looks to be on his way out of Manchester with the club acknowledging that he will not be around next term.
This would be a huge pickup for Barnsley with some Championship sides looking for a permanent deal.
If City decides a loan is in their best interest, maybe a stint at Oakwell could be exactly what they are looking for to develop this young starlet.
What Do You Think Of These Barnsley Transfer Targets?
With that comes the end of my suggestions for signings Barnsley should make this summer. Feel free to let us know what you think of them in the comments below.
Are there any players you’d love to see the Reds sign during this summer window?
