Barnsley’s January window has been a lot busier than they probably would have imagined and Ryan Hedges is on their radar as another exit looms.
Barnsley may have rejected Marley Watkins’ transfer request last week, as reported by Sky Sports, but, with the winger’s future still up in the air, it makes sense to identify a potential replacement.
And, according to HITC sources, The Tykes could do exactly that with a move for Swansea City starlet Ryan Hedges.
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The 21-year-old attacker is yet to make his first team debut at the Liberty Stadium but, via an impressive loan spell with League Two Yeovil Town this season, has earned admiration from the Oakwell chiefs as manager Paul Heckingbottom aims to instil some positives in an otherwise tumultuous transfer window.
And the possibility of him coming in could influence whether Barnsley are open to another departure in the form of Watkins.
In addition to the departures of Conor Hourihane, James Bree and Sam Winnall, the news that Watkins, scorer of six goals and creator of seven, was determined to join the mid-season exodus was the last thing Heckingbottom wanted to hear as he attempts to maintain Barnsley’s place in top ten.
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Nonetheless, Hedges could prove a valuable alternative if The Tykes second highest goalscorer does indeed get his wish before Wednesday’s deadline with the Wales Under-21 international capable of stepping in on the wing or in a centre-forward position – the same roles in which Watkins (below) has thrived this season.
Barnsley have made a habit of signing and improving talented youngsters in recent seasons, from Hourihane to Ashley Fletcher, and Hedges could be the next in line.
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