Barnsley given Reyes Cleary transfer advice - Sheffield United & Hull City talk swirls | OneFootball

Sheffield United and Hull City are among a host of Championship clubs tracking Barnsley's Reyes Cleary ahead of the summer transfer window.

Barnsley are set for a mid-table finish in League One, as fans grow increasingly frustrated at the direction the club are heading.

Conor Hourihane has come in for criticism due to their inconsistent performances, although there is an acknowledgement from many supporters that he is working in difficult circumstances.

The likes of Davis Keillor-Dunn, Callum Styles and Liam Kitching are just some of the individuals that have made the step up to Championship clubs in recent years, and there is a disappointment from those on the terraces about how those funds have been reinvested.

And, it appears at least one more major sale could be on the cards this summer, as it has been reported Reyes Cleary is attracting interest from several clubs in the second tier.

Barnsley told to get best price possible for Reyes Cleary as Championship interest builds

The attacker has had a fine campaign for the Tykes after joining last summer from West Brom.

Cleary had always been regarded as a top talent, but he has really kicked on under Hourihane, scoring six goals and registering 12 assists.

As well as that, he has been a constant threat with his pace and ability to carry the ball, with Cleary one of several players who emerged with credit following Barnsley’s FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.

So, it’s perhaps no surprise clubs were tracking the player in January, but Barnsley did manage to retain their key man.

Yet, that interest hasn’t gone away, as Alan Nixon revealed Sheffield United, Hull, Swansea and Preston have all been scouting Cleary, who had previously been valued at £8m.

Obviously, it will be difficult to keep Cleary if those clubs formalise their interest with offers, and when asked by FLW about the prospect of the forward moving on, Barnsley fan pundit Andy Symcox admitted he could see a move happening, but he hoped the level of interest would drive up the price.

“It’s hardly a surprise that clubs are looking to sign Cleary in the summer. A number of clubs wanted to sign him in January.

“Cleary started the season on fire, but since the January window closed, and no move materialised, his form has dropped off a little. Whether that’s due to speculation about a transfer, or the fact that it’s his first full season playing league football, is open to debate.

“He’s 22, and I have no doubt that there will be clubs wanting to sign him. Whether or not we will sell is again up for debate. I suspect, given our finances, like many other clubs, there is a strong likelihood that Clearly will be sold.

“However, from my personal point of view, the more clubs the better, and there could be a bidding war. If that is the case, our football club should get the best possible price, which should assist rebuilding the squad for next season.”

Barnsley are set for a crucial summer as Reyes Cleary exit feels inevitable

Barnsley have been trending negatively for some time now, and the hierarchy are under scrutiny about how they’re trying to move the club forward.

But, the reality is that any League One club will struggle to retain their players if there is serious Championship interest, as the player will want to move, and we know that money talks.

So, it does seem highly likely that Cleary will depart, and, if he does, it will be an example of Barnsley recruitment working. He was bought in on a free, he has contributed on the pitch, and he will ensure they make a big profit.

That’s how they need to operate, and there’s no doubt that Cleary has the talent and potential to handle the jump up in quality.

As outlined above, a bidding war would be very welcome at Oakwell, and Barnsley must stand firm on their valuation of Cleary.

Then, it’s about backing Hourihane properly in the summer, as funds should be available from any sale to ensure they can attract genuine quality as they try to push for promotion next season.