Multiple Championship Clubs Interested In Barnsley Star

Barnsley forward Davis Keilor-Dunn is being lined up for a January move away from Oakwell, with multiple Championship sides interested in Barnsley’s star man, according to Sports Boom. 

Charlton Atheltic, Birmingham City and Sheffield United are reportedly leading the race to sign the forward, who currently has 5 goals this season.

A Man In Form

Davis Keillor-Dunn started his career with youth spells at Middlesbrough, Sunderland, and Chesterfield. In 2016, he signed with Ross County in the Scottish Premiership, where he made his senior debut but saw limited action amid a challenging transition to professional football.

In 2019, he joined Falkirk on loan in the Scottish Championship, where he scored his first professional goal—he was, however, sent off in that clash. Later that year, he moved to Wrexham in the National League, staying until 2020 and gaining valuable experience lower down the English football ladder. That same year, Keillor-Dunn signed with Oldham Athletic in League Two, where he began to build consistency and showcase his attacking prowess.

In 2022, he transferred to Burton Albion in League One on a two-year deal, netting six goals in 26 appearances, highlighted by his first career hat-trick in a thrilling 4-4 draw versus Accrington Stanley.

In 2023, he joined Mansfield Town in League Two, which turned out to be his breakthrough season, scoring 22 goals and 10 assists to propel the Stags to promotion.

Last season, Keillor-Dunn signed a three-year deal with Barnsley in League One for an undisclosed fee. His debut season at Oakwell was a huge success, scoring 18 goals in 42 league appearances and adding eight assists for a total of 26 goal involvements, often deployed as a forward despite his earlier career playing deeper.

This season, he has started how he finished last year for the Tyke’s, with five goals in seven matches, including crucial finishes that have Barnsley eyeing a hopeful playoff push. At 27, he is entering the prime of career. With his pace and clinical finishing, he is one of League One’s most dangerous attackers.

Can He Step Up?

Keillor-Dunn faces a now or never attempt to play in the Championship, with Sheffield United, Birmingham City, and Charlton Athletic pursuing him. His finishing and versatility can signal his readiness for the step up. However, the Championship’s physical and mental demands could challenge his adaptability. Sheffield United’s high-pressing system suits his work rate, while Birmingham’s ambition aligns with his creativity. Charlton feels less ideal, risking stagnation. January could be a key time for him.

Writers View

Interest from the Championship could be  a good test to prove Keilor-Dunn’s quality. However, his departure could jeopardise Barnsley’s playoff ambitions, given his pivotal attacking contributions.