Departing Barnsley defender Jordan Williams is expected to move up to the Championship this summer as two clubs compete for his services, according to The News’ Neil Allen.
The 24-year-old has left Oakwell after his contract with the League One club expired, but he appears to be headed for the Championship, with Cardiff City and newly promoted Portsmouth vying for his services. How did Williams do for Barnsley last season?
Williams was an ever-present for Barnsley last season, stepping up after loanee Bobby Thomas and skipper Liam Kitching both moved to Championship club Coventry City in the summer.
In total, Williams appeared in all 46 league games for Barnsley.
However, Barnsley’s play-off semi-final defeat to Bolton Wanderers brought Williams’ time with the League One club to an end, and he now seeks the next chapter of his professional career.
What assets would Williams bring to the championship?
Despite being 24, Williams has already established himself in the Championship and League One during his six-year stay at Oakwell. During his time with Barnsley, he made over 200 appearances in all competitions, as well as loan spells with Bury and now-League One side Huddersfield Town.
Similarly, Kitching’s departure on deadline day resulted in Williams being appointed to captain of Barnsley for the duration of the 2023/24 season, assisting in his side’s return to the play-offs. He has also played center-back, right-back, and right wing-back at Oakwell, increasing his versatility for any of his next destinations.
Which team would be the best fit for Williams?
Beginning with Cardiff City, Perry Ng now plays right-back, which means Williams will face stiff competition for first-team minutes next season.
However, Portsmouth have lost Joe Rafferty to Rotherham United, while Zak Swanson has yet to sign a new contract, putting him just weeks away from departing Fratton Park. This would allow Williams to play right-back for the freshly promoted Championship team under John Mousinho.
Cardiff are an established Championship side, whilst Portsmouth might provide Williams with more first-team minutes next season.
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