Blackburn Rovers have signed Callum Brittain from Barnsley for an undisclosed fee.
Brittain began his career at MK Dons where he graduated through their youth academy to make his first-team debut in a 4-1 defeat to Norwich in 2016-17 EFL Trophy in November 2016 as a substitute, amidst having enjoyed a short-term loan spell at Þrottur Reykjavik between May – July 2016.
The fullback went on to score five goals in 122 appearances for the Dons before he moved to Barnsley in October 2020, where he helped the Tykes reach the Championship Play-Offs in his first season but the club eventually suffered relegation at the end of last season.
During his time at Oakwell, Brittain failed to find the net but contributed eight assists in 87 appearances and showed versatility, as he often played at either right-back, right midfield or in defensive midfield with one appearance as a left midfielder last season in a 0-0 draw at home to West Brom.
Rovers’ Director of Football, Gregg Broughton is “delighted” to sign Brittain as he proceeded to explain why the club have swooped for the 24 year-old, as he said: “His profile fits exactly with the playing model we are building at the club – technically proficient, physically robust and the desire to become a better player every day.”
Broughton also noted Brittain’s experience having watched him whilst he was on loan at Þrottur Reykjavik in 2016 – plus Brittain’s MK Dons debut a few months later, whilst adding that the 24 year-old has been the club’s top transfer target.
Brittain is the first signing under Jon Dahl Tomasson who has replaced Tony Mowbray as manager at Ewood Park, following the latter’s departure at conclusion of last season, with Dahl Tomasson backing the decision to sign Brittain who has signed a four-year contract.
Broughton also praised Barnsley for their conduct during Brittain’s transfer as he concluded: “We would like to place on record our thanks to Barnsley for dealing with the transfer as professionally and efficiently as possible.”
Brittain meanwhile is happy to return to the second-tier after Barnsley suffered relegation which would of meant a return to League One which he previously played in for MK Dons.
“I’ve played in the Championship over the last few years and I didn’t really want to drop down to League One again,” commented Brittain on how important this move is for him in terms of staying in the second-tier.
The 24 year-old also took to Twitter to thank everyone at Barnsley for their support:
My time at @BarnsleyFC has come to an end. I would like to say thank you to all the fans, staff and my team mates for all welcoming me and giving me their full support over the past two years. I wish everyone involved with club all the very best in the future ❤️ #uuuredssss
— Callum Brittain (@CallumBrittain1) July 21, 2022
Brittain could make his Rovers debut against QPR at Ewood Park on 30 July in their opening match of 2022-23 season.
Discussion about this post