Barnsley are reportedly closing in on the signing of Blackburn Rovers defender Connor O’Riordan in a loan-to-buy agreement.
The 22-year-old is understood to have completed a medical ahead of the proposed move to Oakwell, with the two clubs now finalising the terms of the transfer.
O’Riordan is expected to join Barnsley on loan for the season, but the agreement would also give the Reds an option to sign him permanently for around £500,000 plus add-ons.
That arrangement would allow Daniel Stendel to strengthen his defensive options immediately while giving Barnsley the opportunity to assess O’Riordan over an extended period before deciding whether to invest in a permanent transfer.
The centre-back has been with Blackburn since January 2024, when he left Crewe Alexandra to move to Ewood Park. Regular first-team opportunities have been limited, however, and he has made only eight senior appearances for the Championship club.
Most of his football since joining Blackburn has come away from the club. O’Riordan has spent time on loan with Cambridge United, Crewe and Doncaster Rovers, building experience across League One and League Two.
O’Riordan Set For South Yorkshire Return
A move to Barnsley would bring O’Riordan back to South Yorkshire after he spent the first half of last season with Doncaster.
The Republic of Ireland under-21 international made 19 league appearances for Rovers before Blackburn recalled him. His departure was a setback for Doncaster, who had admired the defender for some time before securing his signature.
Grant McCann highlighted O’Riordan’s aggression, composure and experience when discussing what he could bring to his side.
“Connor is a player we have admired for a long time. He’s been exceptional for Crewe and rightly got his move to Blackburn.
“Although he’s young, he’s played over 100 senior games at League One and Two level as well as a few games in the Championship for Blackburn.
“He brings a real aggression and determination in his play. He is calm on the ball and will suit our style of play.”
Standing at 6ft 4in, O’Riordan would add further height and physicality to the Barnsley defence. He is also comfortable in possession and has shown a willingness to defend on the front foot, qualities which should give Stendel another option as he shapes his squad.
The proposed deal would provide O’Riordan with the regular football he has struggled to find at Blackburn. For Barnsley, it represents an opportunity to recruit a young defender with substantial EFL experience and the potential to remain at Oakwell beyond the season.
