Barnsley join Huddersfield, Bolton and AFC Wimbledon in race to sign 2023 Flying Eagles invitee

League One side Barnsley have reportedly entered the race to sign highly-rated Crystal Palace goalkeeper Owen Goodman, joining Huddersfield Town, Bolton Wanderers and AFC Wimbledon in pursuit of the talented shot-stopper ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Goodman recently completed an outstanding loan spell at AFC Wimbledon, where he kept 25 clean sheets and played a pivotal role in helping the club secure promotion to League One.

His stellar performances between the posts have not gone unnoticed, with several clubs in the English Football League expressing keen interest in securing his services for the upcoming campaign.

The Nigeria-eligible goalkeeper, who has previously represented England at youth level, also received a call-up to the Nigerian U20 camp — the Flying Eagles — in 2023, underscoring his potential.

According to Alan Nixon via Football League World, Barnsley have joined Bolton and Huddersfield in the race to sign Goodman, while AFC Wimbledon are also keen to bring him back following a successful loan spell.

Despite AFC Wimbledon's hopes of retaining the goalkeeper for another season, Barnsley see Goodman as a strong option to provide competition for their young keeper, Kieran Flavell.

Crystal Palace are expected to send Goodman out on loan once again, as regular first-team football is deemed essential for his continued development.

As he eyes the next step in his career, Goodman will be hoping that another strong season could place him on the radar of Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles, particularly with 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers resuming in September.

With several clubs vying for his signature, the decision now lies in choosing a club that can guarantee him consistent playing time.

Adeyemi Adewale

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