Exclusive: Blackburn Rovers, Preston and Middlesbrough Send Scouts to Watch Barnsley Star

Football Insider247 reports that scouts from Blackburn Rovers, Preston North End, and Middlesbrough were spotted at Barnsley's recent match, all eyeing a promising young star from the League One side. The player, a dynamic attacker yet to be named in the exclusive, has caught attention with his pace, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring instinct, making 14 goal contributions this season despite Barnsley's mid-table position.

The scouting mission took place during Barnsley's 2-1 victory over a relegation-threatened opponent, where the starlet dazzled with a man-of-the-match performance, including a stunning solo goal and two assists. Sources close to the club reveal that the 21-year-old has been on the radar of Championship clubs for months, with his contract expiring in the summer, sparking a potential transfer tug-of-war.

Club Interest Breakdown

• Blackburn Rovers: Seeking to bolster their attack after a solid Championship campaign, recently highlighted by a 2-1 derby win over Preston thanks to goals from Makhtar Gueye and Todd Cantwell. Manager John Eustace eyes the Barnsley talent to add flair alongside new signing Augustus Kargbo.
• Preston North End: Despite recent derby heartbreak, they're rebuilding and see the player as a long-term replacement for aging forwards like Ched Evans, who featured in their loss.
• Middlesbrough: Under pressure to strengthen after defender Darragh Lenihan's injury-plagued return, they aim to inject creativity into their promotion push.

Barnsley, aware of the interest, are reluctant to sell mid-season but could demand a fee exceeding £1.5 million. The player's representatives are fielding inquiries, with Championship rivals like Blackburn—historically linked to Barnsley talents—and Lancashire neighbors Preston adding regional intrigue. Middlesbrough's scouting network, known for unearthing gems, positions them as frontrunners.

This development underscores the fierce Championship scouting battles, especially as playoffs loom. Fans speculate if the star could follow paths like past Barnsley exports to bigger stages. Football Insider247 understands initial bids may arrive in January.[1][2][3]

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