Having secured an incredibly impressive second-place finish in League One last month, Barnsley will be aiming to build the foundations needed for them to become an ever-present in the Championship this summer.

Yet despite boss Daniel Stendel looking to add some extra quality to his squad during the ongoing transfer window, he may have to first focus on the impact that losing Liam Lindsay could have on the Tykes' fortunes going forward.

According to the Scottish Sun, Barnsley have reportedly accepted an offer in the region of £2m for the defender from Stoke City.

If this is indeed true, it is imperative that Stendel brings in a sufficient replacement for Lindsay as a failure to do so could result in as season of struggle for his side in what is one of the most competitive leagues in world football.

Keeping this in mind, here are five defenders who we think the Tykes should be targeting...

Jake Clarke-Salter

Once considered as one of England's hottest prospects, it is fair to say that Jake Clarke-Salter has failed to reach the heights that were expected of him at Chelsea.

However, having impressed whilst on loan at Vitesse last season, the 21-year-old could prove to be a solid, albeit temporary addition to Barnsley's roster if they are willing to take a risk on the England under-21 international.

Eric Garcia

A former product of Barcelona's famous La Masia academy, Eric Garcia produced several stand-out performances for Manchester City in the Carabao Cup last year which indicated a great deal of promise.

Yet despite this form, with the likes of John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Aymeric Laporte ahead of him in the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium, the 18-year-old is extremely unlikely to be given a chance in the Premier League next season and therefore could benefit from a loan move to Barnsley.

With Stendel preferring a possession-based style of play similar to Pep Guardiola, Garcia could fit in perfectly at Oakwell as he is used to playing this particular brand of football at City.

Axel Tuanzebe

Outstanding during his time on loan at Aston Villa last season, Axel Tuanzebe made 28 appearances in the Championship and was a major reason for why the club were able to prevail in the play-offs in May.

Now back at Manchester United, it is unclear whether he will be part of Ole Gunnar Solksjaer's immediate plans for the future.

If he is made surplus for requirements by the Norwegian, Barnsley should consider trying to bring him in on loan as he could turn out to be the perfect replacement for Lindsay - however ambitious that might be.

Martin Cranie

Released by Sheffield United following their promotion to the Premier League, Martin Cranie proved that he still has what it takes to compete in the Championship as he delivered the goods on numerous occasions for Chris Wilder's side.

Having previously enjoyed three fruitful years at Barnsley, the 32-year-old could be open to move back to the club this summer.

If this is indeed the case, the Tykes should consider signing him up as there are not many free agents who are better than the centre-half at this particular level.

Jordan Willis

Available on a free transfer this summer having failed to agree a new deal with Coventry City, Jordan Willis has already been linked with a move to Bristol City (via the Coventry Telegraph) this summer.

Yet whereas the Robins are favourites to secure a deal, if Barnsley do lose Lindsay, they should consider a late swoop for the defender as he clearly has all the ingredients needed to thrive in the Championship and thus could prove to be a fantastic addition to Stendel's squad.