It sounds like Barnsley are keen on bringing Joe Wildsmith back to the club after his release from Derby County. The move would fit in with their strategy of signing familiar faces, as seen with Conor Hourihane and Marc Roberts returning to Oakwell. Adam Oxley, a BBC Sheffield journalist, has reported that Barnsley are looking to capitalize on Derby’s decision to release Wildsmith, who is 28 years old and was also recently let go by the club following their promotion to the Championship.
Joe Wildsmith’s career has been rooted in the Yorkshire area, primarily with Sheffield Wednesday before his brief stint at Barnsley and subsequent move to Derby County. Here’s a brief overview of his career and his recent 2023/24 campaign:
1. **Sheffield Wednesday Academy and First Team (2013-2021)**:
– Wildsmith came through the ranks of Sheffield Wednesday’s academy and made his first-team debut in 2014.
– He spent nearly a decade at Hillsborough, serving as a goalkeeper for Sheffield Wednesday.
2. **Loan Spell at Barnsley (March-April 2015)**:
– In March 2015, Wildsmith joined Barnsley on a short-term loan. This provided him with additional playing experience outside of Sheffield Wednesday.
3. **Move to Derby County (Summer 2021)**:
– Wildsmith moved to Derby County in the summer of 2021. He joined the club during a significant period of transition.
4. **Recent Developments (2023/24 Season)**:
– The 2023/24 season saw Wildsmith continuing his journey in professional football, likely with Derby County or potentially exploring new opportunities depending on his release situation.
As of now, specific details about Wildsmith’s 2023/24 campaign would depend on his club situation post-release from Derby County. His experience in Yorkshire and his familiarity with Barnsley could make a return to Oakwell an attractive prospect for both the player and the club.