Barnsley Strengthen Forward Line with Season-Long Loan Signing of Brighton Prospect Caylan Vickers
Oakwell Stadium, Barnsley – July 21, 2025 – Barnsley FC have reinforced their attacking ranks ahead of the upcoming League One campaign by securing the season-long loan of Brighton & Hove Albion forward Caylan Vickers.
The 20-year-old attacker, comfortable both through the middle and on the left, joins with growing expectations after an encouraging loan spell at Mansfield Town during the latter half of last season. Across 19 appearances for the Stags, Vickers scored twice and added three assists, demonstrating the pace, directness, and creative threat that attracted Barnsley’s interest.
A product of Reading’s academy system, Vickers is preparing for his third stint in League One, having built valuable experience at this level earlier in his career. His arrival offers a timely boost for head coach Conor Hourihane, who is transitioning the side into a more expansive 4-3-3 setup focused on width and fluid attacking play. “Caylan gives us that energy and sharpness we’ve been looking for out wide,” Hourihane said. “He’s eager to develop and ready to make his mark in a Barnsley shirt.”
Sporting Director Mladen Sormaz also praised Vickers’ trajectory, calling the deal a well-calculated addition. “This move reflects our strategy of integrating emerging talent with established experience,” he noted. “Caylan showed at Mansfield that he can adapt to League One’s demands, and we believe he’ll flourish under Conor’s leadership.”
Vickers becomes Barnsley’s second loan addition of the summer, following goalkeeper Murphy Cooper’s arrival from QPR. With pre-season in full swing and the August 9 opener against Cambridge United approaching, the young forward could feature immediately as the Reds push to rebound from last season’s playoff disappointment.
Supporters will get an early look at the new signing in the forthcoming friendlies, including a notable test against Sheffield Wednesday next weekend. Vickers shared his enthusiasm on social media, writing: “Proud to join Barnsley! Excited to get started and give everything for the fans. Up the Reds!”
Barnsley currently sit third in the early League One table after winning their opening two matches, but Hourihane knows the toughest challenges lie ahead. With Vickers now added to the squad, the Reds’ attacking options appear stronger than ever.