Barnsley are looking to complete some last-minute transfer business before tonight’s 11pm deadline and may have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of a key target, according to reports.
Journalist Alan Nixon first reported that the Trotters had registered an interest in Blackburn Rovers frontman Niall Ennis as Ian Evatt is keen to bolster his attacking department before the transfer window slams shut.
However, The Bolton News provided an update on Bolton’s tailing of Ennis, claiming that a loan deal has stalled as Blackburn will only let the 24-year-old leave on loan provided a £500,000 option-to-buy clause is inserted into the agreement.
Furthermore, Alan Nixon has since added that Bolton Wanderers now face stiff competition for the former Plymouth Argyle striker, who only just moved to Ewood Park on a free transfer during the summer. Nixon has revealed that Evatt’s side have been joined by fellow promotion chasers Barnsley in the hunt for Ennis.
Nevertheless, it was reported early on Thursday morning by Bristol Live that Bolton have moved on from their pursuit of Ennis and are closing in on the signing of Bristol Rovers’ Aaron Collins as the Gas are said to have accepted a bid in the region of £750,000.
This leaves Barnsley in the clear to bring Ennis to Oakwell once the board agree to pay Blackburn’s £500,000 asking price further down the line.
Ennis scored on his debut back in August for the Riversiders in the EFL Cup which has turned out to be his only goal of the season so far. The centre-forward has made merely 13 appearances in all competitions for the Championship outfit which has been spread across just 424 minutes in all competitions.
Writer’s View
Barnsley have made one signing since the January transfer window opened, bringing centre-back Donovan Pines to the club from MLS side DC United. However, if Collins is to guide the Tykes back to the Championship this term, more attacking power may be needed.
Devante Cole is the joint-top goalscorer in League One with 16 goals this campaign which comes to 31% of the side’s tally. Collins will be hoping to ease the burden off the experienced striker’s shoulders by signing Ennis who has recorded 44 goal contributions in 126 matches in England’s third tier which could be a smart move by the club.
Deputy Head of Writing
