Derby County are being linked with a January move for Barnsley midfielder Patrick Kelly as they look to strengthen their squad. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international is seen as a potential option to add competition in the centre of the park.

John Eustace's side are in urgent need of reinforcements, sitting 23rd in the Championship with just six points from 11 games, a record of one win, three draws and seven defeats. Their winless start to the season, featuring only one victory, has left them three points from safety alongside Preston North End and Burnley. A recent 1-0 home defeat to Stoke City on Saturday 17 October extended a difficult run of form that has seen them lose three of their last five matches. Their recent form stands at zero wins, two draws and three losses from the last five, including consecutive defeats to Stoke City and a 4-1 loss to QPR on Wednesday 14 October, where Lars-Jørgen Salvesen scored a late consolation. The team has scored just nine goals all season while conceding 20.

Patrick Kelly's profile

Patrick Kelly began his career at Coleraine before moving to England with West Ham United in 2022. He made six first-team appearances for the Hammers and had a loan spell at Doncaster Rovers before joining Barnsley in 2025. Since his move to Oakwell, Kelly has made 60 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing eight assists. His contract with the League One club runs until June 2028.

Potential midfield competition

The opinion suggests Kelly would provide fresh competition for places in Derby's midfield. He could challenge the likes of Lewis Travis, David Ozoh and Oscar Fraulo for a starting role. "Derby County could do with bringing in some new faces to freshen up their ranks this winter," the analysis noted. With Barnsley also struggling near the bottom of League One, a move could offer the player a route back to the second tier.

Derby's immediate focus is on halting their slide, having conceded 20 goals while scoring only nine this season. They face a tough trip to Sheffield United on Saturday 24 October as they aim to climb the standings. Any potential move for Kelly would be part of a broader effort to revive their campaign in the January transfer window.

Background and full detail: The72 - Football League News