Barnsley are reportedly interested in signing Stoke City striker Niall Ennis in the upcoming January transfer window.
According to journalist Darren Witcoop, the Tykes are keen on bringing the 25-year-old to Oakwell as they push for promotion from League One under manager Darrell Clarke.
Ennis’s Situation at Stoke City
Ennis has struggled for game time and form this season, making nine appearances across all competitions without finding the net. Despite being under contract with the Potters until the summer of 2026, his future at the Bet365 Stadium remains uncertain. He joined Stoke in February 2024 under former boss Steven Schumacher, but the managerial change to Narcis Pelach has left his role in question.
Witcoop’s update on X suggests Ennis is “expected” to leave Stoke this winter, with Barnsley monitoring his situation closely. A move could offer the Wolverhampton-born striker a fresh start and an opportunity to rediscover his form.
Ennis’s Career Path
Ennis began his career in the academy at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he represented England at various youth levels. However, his first-team opportunities were limited, leading to loan spells at Shrewsbury Town, Doncaster Rovers, and Burton Albion.
In 2020, he made a permanent move to Plymouth Argyle, where he enjoyed a successful stint, scoring 24 goals in 97 appearances. His form at Home Park earned him a transfer to Blackburn Rovers, but his time there was short-lived, managing only one goal before moving to Stoke City.
Speaking about his move to Stoke, Ennis stated:
“It’s a huge privilege getting the opportunity to represent Stoke City. I know the fans want to see exciting, front-foot football, and that is exactly the type of team I want to play in. As a striker, I want to score goals and get the fans off their seats.”
Why Barnsley Are Interested
Barnsley, currently sitting 9th in League One and just one point outside the playoff spots, are looking to strengthen their squad to boost their promotion push. Ennis’s experience at both Championship and League One levels could make him a valuable addition to their frontline.
While Ennis has struggled for form recently, his track record at Plymouth Argyle demonstrates his potential to perform when given regular opportunities. A move to Oakwell could provide the change of scenery he needs to regain confidence and contribute to Barnsley’s goalscoring efforts.
What’s Next?
The January transfer window will be crucial for Barnsley as they aim to solidify their promotion credentials. Ennis’s availability and potential fit into Darrell Clarke’s system make this a move worth monitoring. If a deal is struck, it could benefit both Barnsley’s ambitions and Ennis’s career revival.
