Barnsley have been hit with transfer blow, after Nigerian Araphat Abubakar was unable to secure a work permit with the club due to FA rules, allnigeriasoccer has reported.

The 18-year-old Abubakar had enjoyed a productive trial at Barnsley, working with the club's youth teams at Under 16, Under 18 and Under 23 level, and impressed enough to be offered a professional contract at Oakwell.

However, he has been unable to sign the deal due to work permit and immigration rules, leaving his future up in the air.

It is thought that the Nigerian had been in England on a student visa, and that he completed his studies on Friday, which appears not to have helped his cause.

Barnsley may not be the only side to be affected by this setback. Premier League duo West Ham and Burnley have both taken an interest in the striker, while Araphat has also previously trained with Barnsley's Championship rivals for next season, Wigan Athletic.

The Verdict

This is a hugely frustrating situation for Barnsley.

Araphat has clearly impressed during his trial with the club, so to now be set to miss out on him for non footballing reasons will be a big disappointment for The Tykes.

The way that the 18-year-old rose through the ranks quickly at Barnsley clearly shows that he had the potential to make an impact at the club, so that will only add to the sense of annoyance around the situation.

The one consolation for Barnsley appears to be that none of the other clubs linked with a move for Araphat will be able to secure his services either.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.