Barnsley have completed the signing of Forest Green Rovers defender Liam Kitching. The 21-year-old arrives for an undisclosed fee, signing a four-year contract at Oakwell.
Kitching has impressed in League Two, helping Forest Green establish themselves as promotion contenders. He leaves The Green Army sitting in the automatic promotion places.
He is Valerien Ismael’s first signing as Barnsley manager since the Frenchman took over as manager of the club.
Barnsley Sign Forest Green Rovers Defender Liam Kitching
Kitching Returns to Yorkshire After Productive Spell in League Two
The talented defender started his career at Leeds United. However, the defender made his name in non-league with Harrogate Town.
He was a fixture in the Harrogate team for two seasons, in which he helped them rise to the National League. He played an integral role in their promotion before helping them stabilise in the fifth tier.
Kitching is a versatile defender who can help at centre-back and left-back. He eventually got his break in the EFL at Forest Green joining them in 2019. Like his time at Harrogate, Kitching became a fixture in the team. He made 36 appearances for Forest Green in his full season at the club.
Again, Kitching has been a regular this campaign making 17 appearances for the club. At 21, his best years are ahead as he gears up for a crack at the Championship with improving Barnsley.
He joins a Tykes side sat in ninth place after a terrific start under new manager Ismael. They have put themselves firmly in promotion contention and they find themselves just three points adrift of the play-offs.
Kitching is likely to make his debut in Barnsley’s next league game against Swansea City on January 16.
Kitching Excited for New Challenge at Barnsley
Speaking to IFollow Barnsley about his move, Kitching said: “I’m delighted. When the move came about I didn’t think twice about it.
“It’s a massive club and to move up from League Two to the Championship and get back home up north, I’m just excited for the challenge.”
Chief Executive Dane Baptiste Thrilled With Latest Recruit
Chief Executive Dane Baptiste added: “We are thrilled to add another talented player to our squad.
“Liam is a player who has demonstrated his ability with a number of outstanding performances in the Football League.
“Valérien knows the characteristics that Liam possesses, and his arrival not only adds more quality to the team but more healthy competition for places. The club believe he will go on to be a great success at Oakwell.”
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