Irishman Neil Farrugia is expected to join Scottish Premiership side Dundee United on a permenant deal, confirmed in the coming days.
The Winger began his career with Irish side UCD, scoring 3 in 37, before making the switch to Shamrock Rovers in the summer of 2019, At Rovers he found himself playing at left-wing back, as well as left-wing, making the odd appearance at striker too.
He netted 12 times in 134 for Shamrock, Farrugia made 13 European appearances too, netting a goal in both the Europa League and Conference League respectively.
Neil Farrugia’s time at Barnsley has been reasonably disappointing. Since arriving in January 2025, he has made 30 appearances, but has managed to find the net only once.
Despite being brought in to add energy and attacking thrust down the left flank, he has struggled to establish himself as a consistent influence in the final third.
Periods of patchy form, combined with competition for places, have limited his impact, and he has yet to replicate the dynamism he showed earlier in his career.
He joins Loanee striker Max Watters at The Tangerines, hoping to revitalise his career.
Dundee United fans can expect a technically tidy, hard‑working left-sided player in Neil Farrugia.
He’s quick, carries the ball confidently, and likes to drive forward from deep areas, while his end product hasn’t been as effective as he would like, the winger still offers good athleticism and a willingness to take responsibility on the ball.
Supporters should see a player who covers ground, links play well, and gives the team an outlet on the flank.
He’s not the type to immediately rack up goals or assists, but with a clearer role and a bit of confidence, there’s room for him to grow into a reliable contributor.
The rumour mill spins towards English right midfielder Jordan Thomas of Cheltenham Town to replace the outgoing Farrugia.
Thomas would come in as a slightly different profile to Neil Farrugia, and Barnsley fans will probably notice that straight away.
He’s more direct, likes to run at his man, and isn’t shy about trying to make something happen in the final third.
There’s a bit more edge and unpredictability to his game, which is something Barnsley have been missing on that side.
He’s still ironing out the consistency you’d want from a regular starter, but the raw ingredients are there: pace, intent, and a willingness to take risks.
If he settles quickly and gets a run of games, he should give Barnsley a more lively, attacking outlet than they’ve had recently.
