Exclusive: Barrow respond to MK Dons' Wyll Stanway offer

Exclusive: Barrow Respond to MK Dons' Wyll Stanway Offer

Barrow AFC has firmly rejected an approach from MK Dons for their promising goalkeeper Wyll Stanway, declaring the 23-year-old England C international unavailable for transfer during the January 2026 window. The League Two club, currently struggling in 19th place with 24 points from 24 matches, views the Barrow-born shot-stopper as a key asset amid their fight against relegation.

Stanway, standing at 6ft 4, joined Barrow permanently from Chester FC in May 2024 on a two-year deal with an option to extend, following an impressive season where he kept 19 clean sheets in 46 appearances for the National League North side.[1][2] His hometown connection and rapid integration have made him a fan favorite at the SO Legal Stadium. Sporting Director Iain Wood praised the signing at the time, noting Stanway's England C call-up and potential for growth within the squad.[1]

The bid from MK Dons, a mid-table League Two rival, comes as Barrow faces mounting pressure, having won just one home game this season (1-3-7 record at home, 5-3-5 away).[5] Fan forums buzz with speculation, including rumored interest from higher-tier clubs like Huddersfield Town and a £125,000 valuation, but Barrow insists on retaining him: "Wyll is not for sale. He's integral to our survival push," a club source told Football Insider.

Stanway's form has been a bright spot in Barrow's leaky defense (35 goals conceded in 24 games), and rejecting the offer signals ambition despite their position just above the drop zone. MK Dons, active in the window with deals like Michael Williams from Barrow, may look elsewhere.[4] As the window heats up, Barrow's stance underscores their belief in Stanway's long-term value.

(Word count: 298)