Luton Town interest in Barnsley captain Luca Connell has resurfaced ahead of the summer window, and this time, it feels like there could be something in it.
Connell was linked with the Hatters back in January, but nothing materialised before the deadline. Now, with Jack Wilshere preparing for a full summer rebuild after missing out on the play-offs, the midfielder’s name is back in circulation.
According to a report from The Yorkshire Post, Wilshere remains keen on the 25-year-old, although there is also believed to be Championship interest building.
That last bit is probably the key detail. If Connell leaves Oakwell this summer, Barnsley supporters would likely accept him moving up a division. Losing him to another League One side, especially one expected to challenge near the top end, would be a much tougher sell.
Still, there is logic to it from Luton’s side. Connell has been one of the division’s better midfielders for a while now, even during a pretty inconsistent spell for Barnsley as a club. He plays with intensity, covers ground well and has gradually grown into more of a leader since taking the captaincy. You do not make 171 appearances for Barnsley across four seasons without being dependable.
The timing also makes sense. Connell has one year left on his current deal and Barnsley are not exactly in a position where they can ignore decent offers. If Championship clubs firm up their interest, the Reds may simply have to cash in now rather than risk losing value further down the line.
Luton are trying to build momentum again after a frustrating campaign. Missing the play-offs was a disappointment given how strong their form became under Wilshere, but there is still a sense they could be one of the stronger sides in League One next season if recruitment goes well.
This would count as a serious signing at this level. Connell is not some under-the-radar punt or a player coming off one good season. He is established, experienced in the division and probably ready for the step up to the Championship himself.
Whether Luton can convince him to stay in League One instead could end up being the deciding factor. They could undoubtedly match the sort of money the likes of us, Portsmouth or Charlton would be likely to offer, but can they match the ambition?
It’s also a blow for Barnsley fans, as they’re already resigned to a season of struggle. They’ve been told, well in advance of the campaign starting, that they’re likely to have a smaller budget, and that will be reflected in player movement, just like this.