'We're hoping so' - Barnsley boss issues Reyes Cleary transfer update amid Sheffield United interest
Sheffield United are interested in Barnsley winger Reyes Cleary ahead of Monday night’s transfer deadline.
Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane is relaxed about Reyes Cleary’s future ahead of Monday night’s 7pm transfer deadline amid Sheffield United’s interest in the winger’s signature.
As reported by The Star on Thursday, Cleary, who joined the Reds from West Bromwich Albion on a three-year deal last summer, is understood to be on United’s radar ahead of the mid-season window closing for business.
The wide areas are understood to be an area of focus for the Blades in the closing stages of the window, and Cleary has made a telling impression for Barnsley so far this season, earning plenty of attention.
Blades boss Chris Wilder, on Friday, confirmed the club has “had a look” at Cleary, meaning the prospect of a late switch to Bramall Lane has not been ruled out. The winger, 21, has scored five goals and registered 11 assists in all competitions so far this season.
The winger added another assist to his collection in Barnsley’s 3-1 win over Stevenage on Saturday, while fellow dangerman Davis Keillor-Dunn scored twice. Both players are attracting interest from Championship clubs ahead of the looming deadline.
Despite plenty of uncertainty over their respective futures, Barnsley chief Hourihane is relaxed heading into the closing stages of the window.
Hourihane calm amid Cleary speculation
Hourihane, when asked if the club will be able to keep Cleary and Keillor-Dunn, told BBC Radio Sheffield: "We're hoping so. We're really hoping so.
"Look, there is a lot of talk going around now and, I think, from my point of view, it was really, really important to settle things down with a win - and that is what we have got out and done today.
"I think if I'm sat here with a loss, people are asking what's going on. Again, everyone's got emotions sky-high. But a win today keeps everyone calm. I am hoping we will be in a good place for Northampton on Tuesday."
Barnsley have drafted in three wingers during this window, meaning some supporters have suggested that has been done with the expectation Clearly will depart. However, Hourihane has insisted he wanted more wide players regardless of speculation concerning Cleary’s future.
Hourihane added: "Absolutely. Fábio [Jaló] has gone out on loan.
"It's funny because people say, 'We need bodies, we need bodies', and then a winger comes through the door and then it's, 'Reyes is going'.
"It's funny how people think sometimes. But, yes, it's all good from that point of view."