Barnsley complete signing of Marcel Ritzmaier from Wolfsberger AC

Ritzmaier follows boss Gerhard Struber from Austrian club Wolfsberger AC and signs a deal until the summer of 2022.

The 26-year-old, who has also played for PSV, is a versatile operator and was an integral part of Struber's success in Austria.

Notably, the club have reneged on their usual policy of only signing players under 23 as they give Struber what he wants in the bid for Championship safety.

Struber said: “Marcel is a special player and will offer us more options for positions in the diamond.

“He can play in what I would call the number eight, the six and the 10.

“He’s a player with experience and high technical skills and is also quick, so I am very happy he’s chosen to play for Barnsley FC.

“Marcel will help for me and our team, also our fans. He will be a good player for this club.”

Ritzmaier added: “I am really happy to sign for Barnsley FC and to play in England.

“I have played for eight and a half years in the Netherlands and also in Austria and also the Europa League so I hope I can bring some experience to the team.

“I have a good relationship with Gerhard and Max, I know them as trainers and they know me as a player.

“The way they want to play fits me very well, I am happy to work with them.”

Barnsley, who are three points from safety, host Huddersfield Town on Saturday.