James Norwood is set to join Barnsley, according to reports, after Bristol Rovers decided against signing the 31-year-old striker.
The former Ipswich Town and Forest Green Rovers forward was on Rovers' radar, with the club and player holding face-to-face talks, but instead, the Gas brought in John Marquis last week on a free transfer after he was released by Portsmouth.
Oxford United were also understood to be interested in a move for Norwood after he left Portman Road, but the East Anglian Daily Times reports he is set to join forces with Michael Duff at Oakwell.
Norwood has close ties to Rovers' coaching staff. He shares the same agent with Barton and they went on a golf holiday together in Scotland last month. He also close to first-team coach Andy Mangan after playing together at Tranmere Rovers and Forest Green.
Rovers appeared to be well placed to seal a deal for Norwood, but Barton decided against a move, with Marquis deemed a better option. The durability of the former Doncaster Rovers and Lincoln City striker over the years doubtless played its part in that decision.
The Gas moved quickly to sign Marquis, wrapping up a deal in just a couple of days before he jetted out to join the pre-season training camp in Portugal. After a run-out in the behind-closed-doors friendly against Porto, he scored twice for the Gas in Tuesday's win against Chippenham Town.
Norwood scored 26 goals in 77 league appearances across three seasons at Ipswich, where he spent several periods out of contention due to injuries and off-field matters.
Barnsley are in need of strikers after selling last season's top goalscorers, Cauley Woodrow and Carlton Morris, to Championship side Luton Town. Coincidentally, Rovers are pursuing a move for Barnsley's Luke Thomas.
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