Barnsley manager David Flitcroft has revealed to BBC Radio Sheffield reporter Paul Walker that he tried but failed to sign Newcastle full-back Shane Ferguson, but the player opted to join Birmingham City.
The 21-year-old has played at international level for Northern Ireland and is thought to have a big future on Tyneside, having represented the Magpies on 23 occasions.
Flitcroft is hopeful of bringing in a Premier League left-back before Saturday's home game with Bolton Wanderers, which will see ex-Red Craig Davies return to Oakwell.
Boss Flitcroft is still hopeful of bringing former Barnsley man John Stones back to Oakwell on loan before the loan window closes. 18-year-old Stones left Barnsley on transfer deadline day to join Everton in a £3million deal.