Exclusive: Sky Sports pundit raises Barnsley concern amid transfer interest in Lincoln City star | OneFootball

Don Goodman has told exclusively told FLW his verdict on Barnsley's interest in Lincoln City defender Paudie O'Connor.

Don Goodman is not surprised by Barnsley’s interest in Lincoln City defender Paudie O’Connor.

It has been exclusively revealed by Football League World that the Tykes are eyeing a potential move for the Irishman this summer.

However, the League One club also face competition from third tier rivals Huddersfield Town.

O’Connor impressed with his performances for the Imps this past season, playing a key role in the team as they finished 11th in the third division table, and above Barnsley in the standings on goal difference.

Don Goodman makes Paudie O’Connor, Barnsley transfer claim

Goodman praised O’Connor’s performances for Lincoln this season, suggesting he’s not surprised by the transfer interest now surrounding him.

He believes Barnsley have to prioritise improving their defensive options in the upcoming transfer window if they are to bridge the gap to the top teams in the division in the next campaign.

“Well, it’s a rebuild job for Barnsley after a very disappointing 12th-placed finish in League One when they were expected, obviously, to be challenging for the top,” Goodman exclusively told Football League World.

“One of the principal reasons that they finished 12th is that they conceded 73 goals, which I’ve just found staggering — I had no idea.

“That is never going to get you success at any level when you concede 73 league goals.

“So, understandable that Barnsley would be looking at central defenders. Paudie had a great season with Lincoln City, scored a few goals, three goals and five assists as well from central defence, so I understand the link for sure.”

Barnsley appointed Conor Hourihane as permanent manager in the final stages of the season, and he will now be looking to bolster the side this summer after the club finished in an underwhelming 12th place in League One, 17 points adrift of the play-offs.

O’Connor would be a great signing for Barnsley

It’s no surprise that Barnsley have shown an interest in O’Connor given how well he performed in League One this season.

The Tykes will need defensive reinforcements this summer, as it’s been a real area of weakness for them over the last 12 months.

O’Connor has also shown he can be a threat at both ends of the pitch, which would also be a welcome addition to Hourihane's squad.

The Barnsley head coach will have a lot of work to do this transfer window to turn things around at Oakwell, and winning the race to O’Connor’s signature will be tricky, but this would be a great signing if they could get it over the line.