Barnsley are aiming to strengthen their goalkeeping options by bringing in Queens Park Rangers’ shot-stopper Murphy Cooper on loan, according to West London Sport.
The former Swindon Town loanee is expected to sign a contract extension with QPR before heading out again, with Oakwell emerging as the likely destination.
Impressive Stevenage Spell
Cooper, who changed his surname from Mahoney by deed poll in 2024, spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at League One side Stevenage. He featured regularly under Steve Evans at the Lamex before returning to Loftus Road, and while Stevenage had hoped to secure his return, Barnsley have now moved ahead in the race. Bolton Wanderers also expressed interest, but sources suggest it’s the South Yorkshire side who are closing in on his signature.
The move comes as Barnsley look to reinforce a squad that narrowly missed the League One play-offs and seek renewed momentum under their next managerial appointment. A dependable goalkeeper is seen as crucial to those ambitions, and Cooper’s experience across the EFL makes him an attractive option.
Cooper Career So Far
Born in Reading, Cooper began his youth career at Caversham AFC before spells with Wycombe Wanderers and ultimately QPR, whom he joined in 2012. After loan stints at Welling United, Bath City, and Stratford Town, Cooper made his senior debut for QPR during the 2021–22 season, deputising for the injured Kieren Westwood in a Championship clash at Preston North End.
In 2023, he joined Swindon Town on loan and became their first-choice keeper before a hamstring injury cut his campaign short in December. He bounced back strongly at Stevenage, proving himself again at League One level. Now, a move to Barnsley could offer another step forward in a career that has steadily gained momentum despite early setbacks.
Writer’s View
Murphy Cooper’s potential switch to Barnsley feels like a sensible step for both player and club. Barnsley need stability and experience between the sticks, and while Cooper isn’t a household name, he’s quietly built a strong reputation through a variety of loan moves. Importantly, he’s proven himself in League One already and shown resilience after injury setbacks.
For QPR, tying him down to a new deal shows they believe in his long-term value, even if his pathway to the first team remains blocked. Should the Tykes get the deal done, it would mark another astute EFL loan that could benefit all parties.
