Barnsley endured a rollercoaster ride last season, going from challenging the Play-Off places, to ultimately settling for finishing in 14th position.

A huge factor in the Tykes' weaker second half to the campaign was the January transfer window, which saw stars such as Conor Hourihane and Sam Winnall leave Oakwell.

The departures certainly haven't stopped however with other top players such as Marley Watkins and Josh Scowen also now leaving the club.

Scowen following Hourihane out of Yorkshire has left a huge hole in the middle of the park and reinforcements will certainly be needed in that area of the pitch.

An option that should at least be considered is out-of-contract Blackburn midfielder Hope Akpan, rated at £425k on Transfermarkt.

The 25-year-old has spent the majority of his career playing in the Championship and after suffering relegation last season with Rovers, he will be hoping that another Championship team will snap him up.

With 111 appearances made in the division, he would offer Barnsley his experience as well as some much-needed strength in midfield.

Akpan is considered a more defensive player but has contributed going forward in his career, scoring 14 times whilst contributing a further 15 assists.

Barnsley fans may frown upon the fact the Nigerian most recently played for a relegated side but Akpan has shown his ability to play the game throughout his career, including a stint in the Premier League with Reading.

Barnsley fans... Is signing Akpan something you would be interested in? How vital is it that you replace Scowen appropriately? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!