Breaking news- Club agrees new deal to sign Tottenham midfielder just few hours after Hojbjerg exit confirmed
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Matthew Craig has secured a loan move to Barnsley, as sources close to the club have revealed to Football Insider. The 21-year-old talent, who impressed significantly during his loan spell at Doncaster Rovers last season, has become a sought-after player, attracting interest from numerous clubs over the summer. Barnsley, however, moved swiftly and efficiently to secure Craig’s signature, with the young midfielder already completing his medical examination in South Yorkshire.
The final touches are now being put on the deal, with official confirmation expected imminently. Barnsley’s decision to delve into the loan market is part of a broader strategy to enhance their squad as they set their sights on promotion this season, following a heartbreaking playoff defeat to Bolton in the last campaign. The addition of Craig is seen as a key move to bolster their midfield strength.
Matthew Craig’s journey to this point has been marked by consistent growth and impressive performances. He joined Tottenham’s academy setup at the tender age of 12, after transferring from Watford. Over the years, he honed his skills and developed into a promising midfielder, eventually making his professional debut for Spurs in 2023. Recognizing his potential and contributions, Tottenham offered Craig a contract extension in 2023, securing his services until 2026.
Within Tottenham, Craig is held in high esteem. He captained the under-21s team before being loaned out mid-season to Doncaster Rovers. During his stint at Doncaster, Craig made 18 appearances, playing a crucial role in the team’s impressive climb up the League Two table. His influence was instrumental as Doncaster secured a fifth-place finish. Despite the team’s unfortunate exit in the playoff semi-finals, losing on penalties, Craig’s individual performances did not go unnoticed.
His displays of talent and leadership on the field piqued the interest of several clubs across the English Football League (EFL). In April, Football Insider reported that both Millwall and Sheffield Wednesday were closely tracking Craig’s progress. However, Barnsley’s proactive approach allowed them to stay ahead of their rivals and secure the deal for the promising midfielder.
Barnsley’s ambitions for the upcoming season are clear. After narrowly missing out on promotion last season, they are determined to make a stronger push this time around. The acquisition of Matthew Craig on loan is a testament to their commitment to strengthening their squad. Craig’s experience and skills are expected to be a valuable addition to Barnsley’s midfield, providing them with the depth and quality needed to achieve their promotion goals.
As Craig prepares to embark on this new chapter of his career at Barnsley, both clubs and fans will be watching closely. His journey from Tottenham’s academy to a pivotal loan move in the EFL underscores his potential and the high regard in which he is held. Barnsley’s swift action in securing Craig’s loan is a strategic move that could pay significant dividends as the season progresses, helping them in their quest for success.
