Barnsley have signed midfielder Patrick Kelly on a three-year deal from West Ham United.

The 20-year-old from Northern Ireland began his career at Coleraine then moved to West Ham in 2022 but has never made an appearance for their first team.

The FA Youth Cup winner spent last season on loan at nearby Doncaster Rovers, playing 30 times in their League Two title win including 15 starts.

He also made eight cup appearances and scored three goals in total.

Kelly - who is also a youth international for Northern Ireland - is seen as a top prospect for the future by the Reds. They have an option to keep him for a fourth year.

Sporting director Mladen Sormaz said: “Patrick is a player we’ve tracked for some time, he brings a different profile to our midfield, and we’re thrilled to bring him to Oakwell on a permanent transfer.

“He’s shown real maturity for his age, with a strong grounding at West Ham and valuable senior experience contributing to Doncaster’s title win last season. We believe he has all the attributes to develop into a top midfielder and we’re excited to help him take the next step in his career here at Barnsley.”

Conor Hourihane added: “We’re really pleased to add Patrick to the group.

“He’s a dynamic, intelligent midfielder who fits the way we want to play. He’s had a brilliant grounding at youth international level and has already tasted success in a promotion-winning team, which will stand him in good stead.

“We’re looking forward to working with him and helping him settle into the squad.”