Barnsley Set To Swoop For League Two Star?

Barnsley are close to agreeing a deal for Bradford City goalkeeper Harry Lewis, according to TeamTalk via a post on Twitter.

Harry Lewis has been a stand out performer for The Bantams throughout the 22/23 season. This superb form has reportedly caught the eye of newly appointed Barnsley manager Neill Collins. The 25 year old is currently under contract at Valley Parade but could be tempted to leave for the opportunity to play at a League One club with ambitions of promotion to The Championship.

Who is Harry Lewis?

The Shrewsbury born goalkeeper began his career in the youth ranks of his hometown club before continuing his development with Southampton, signing for the Saints in 2015.

Lewis made his professional debut in the FA Cup, in a 2-2 draw at Carrow Road conceding a penalty.

He penned a three year deal with the south coast club but spent the 2017-18 season on loan in the Scottish Championship with Dundee United, making 39 league appearances keeping eleven clean sheets as the Terrors finished third in the league.

Following the expiry of his contract in 2022, Lewis signed a two year deal at Bradford City. The stopper had an impressive year at the club, making 55 appearances in all competitions keeping 18 clean sheets as Mark Hughes’ side finished sixth in League Two before being eliminated at the Play-Off Semi Final stage by Carlisle United.

A competitive season ahead

Last season, Bradford City finished in the play-off positions for the first time since their relegation to League Two four years ago.

They are going in to their fifth season in the fourth tier and face the prospect of potentially losing one of their star players. With many sides in the division continuing to strengthen, League Two is shaping up for a competitive year.

What’s been said?

TEAMtalk posted on social media revealing the news, stating…

“TEAMtalk understands that Barnsley are close to a deal for Bradford City goalkeeper Harry Lewis”

Writer’s view

Harry Lewis is a huge asset for Mark Hughes. After tying top scorer Andy Cook down to a long term deal, it is critical for the Bantams to keep Lewis at Valley Parade.

However, Barnsley are going in to the next League One campaign as one of the promotion favourites and will be looking to replace Harry Isted in net. Therefore, I can see Lewis being swayed by an opportunity to play at a club with a realistic opportunity of playing Championship football within two years.