Barnsley played against the odds last season, and under Paul Heckingbottom beat the expectations and not only avoided relegation in their return to the Championship, but also managed a respectable 14th place finish, and with them already recruiting seven new faces this summer, are looking in good stead to exceed last term's achievements.

Two of their signings this campaign, have come from Premier League club Southampton.

The first being Lloyd Isgrove who impressed at the Oakwell last season on loan from the Saints, with the deal being made permanent after Isgrove was released from the St Mary's.

The second capture from the Saints was young defender Jason McCarthy, who last season out-loan at Walsall, claimed their player of the season award, after an incredible showing.

With the Tykes recruiting such talent from Southampton, it may be worth Heckingbottom scouting through the Saints' younger players and academy, to see whether they have any other players good enough for his first team, that he could possible get on-loan to up his squad depth.

Attacking midfielder Jake Hesketh, could be a brilliant addition to Heckingbottom's side if Southampton were willing to send him out on-loan.

Hesketh is a brilliant young talent, with the capability of playing an advanced or deep-role in the midfield, but can also be utilised out on the wing, which is a position Barnsley need to fill after the sale of Marley Watkins.

The 21-year-old may only be 5ft 4 in height, but he disguises his height with his pace, agility and ability to beat a man though his amazing skill. Hesketh is also known for his great long shot technique, scoring many long range efforts for the Southampton youth setup.

Southampton may be skeptical about sending him out on-loan as he hasn't been given the chance to express his talents for another club yet, but if given the green light to join Oakwell, he would certainly benefit from the experience and more than likely adapt into a more complete midfielder for the Saints in the future as a result.

Barnsley fans... What do you think? Would you take Hesketh on-loan? Is there any other realistic target you'd prefer to sign? Let us know in the comments below...