Championship sides, Derby County, Oxford United, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers are all keen on Barnsley’s Jon Russell.
The Jamaican international is coming off his best season yet, netting 11 times in 46 appearances. 24-year-old Russell had Championship suitors last summer but chose to remain at Oakwell, a move that proved beneficial for the midfielder.
Russell began his career in Chelsea’s youth academy, before a loan with Accrington Stanley set up a permanent move north with Huddersfield Town. He made the move across Yorkshire in 2023, being a mainstay in the Tykes starting XI despite the constant changing of managers.
Unfortunately for Barnsley, Russell has just 12 months left on his current contract and with the club’s owners unwilling to invest, now could be the time to cash in on the player or see him run down his deal.
All four Championship clubs could offer reasonable fees, alongside giving Russell the chance to step up divisions once again, as he previously did with Huddersfield Town.
The 24-year-old is a versatile midfielder that can play anywhere in central midfield. Up until last season, he was utilised in deep midfield, with his height helping out the defence with aerial duels.
In 2024-25, things changed for Russell, with him being moved into a more attacking position. This allowed him to attack the oppositions box and get onto the end of crosses. A move that proved fruitful with the player netting 11 times.
For Barnsley, losing Russell would continue a worrying trend. The club lost out to Bradford City when offering forward Stephen Humphrys a new contract and the Tykes are also reported to have lost out on deals with several other players.
The South Yorkshire side will also have to fend off interest for top scorer Davis Keillor-Dunn, with interest heating up in the 19-goal forward.
