Crystal Palace goalkeeper Owen Goodman is on the verge of completing a loan move to League One side Barnsley, with a medical scheduled to take place imminently.
The 22-year-old shot-stopper is expected to finalise his switch to Oakwell within the next 24 hours, according to transfer specialist Pete O'Rourke. This development comes after Barnsley activated a clause to terminate the loan of Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Murphy Cooper, creating a vacancy between the posts.
Goodman's Path to Oakwell
Owen Goodman's proposed move to South Yorkshire marks the latest chapter in a season of change for the young keeper. He began the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Huddersfield Town, where he made 10 appearances in League One. However, his stint with the Terriers was cut short earlier this month, and he has not featured since late November.
A product of the Crystal Palace academy, Goodman has gained experience through previous loan spells at Colchester United and AFC Wimbledon. Despite being named on the bench for the Eagles on four occasions during the 2022/23 season, he is yet to make a senior appearance for the Premier League club.
Barnsley's Goalkeeping Reshuffle
Barnsley's decision to bring in Goodman follows their choice to send Murphy Cooper back to his parent club, QPR. Cooper had been an ever-present in the league for the Tykes this season, making his departure a significant one.
Tykes head coach Conor Hourihane has openly discussed the rationale behind the switch. He confirmed the club's interest in Goodman, highlighting the different qualities he would bring to the squad. "He's a different profile from Murphy," Hourihane told the Yorkshire Post. "He's big, physical, dominant in terms of stature. I feel like... that was something that the backline probably needed."
On the decision to end Cooper's loan early, Hourihane explained it was part of a broader strategy to take control of the squad's composition, particularly with loan players. He acknowledged it was a difficult call given Cooper's popularity within the group, but one made for the benefit of the team's progression.
What the Move Means
This transfer creates a mini merry-go-round involving three clubs across two divisions. For Owen Goodman, it represents a crucial opportunity for regular first-team football at a competitive League One club as he continues his development away from Selhurst Park.
For Barnsley, it signals a deliberate shift in their defensive strategy, opting for a more physically commanding presence in goal. The swift action to secure Goodman's signature demonstrates their preparedness in the January transfer window. Meanwhile, QPR will now assess the returning Murphy Cooper's options as the mid-season trading period continues.
