Barnsley have signed USA international striker Daryl Dike from Orlando City FC on loan until the end of the season with an option to buy.
The 20-year-old made his debut for the national team last night as a substitute in a 7-0 win against Trinidad and Tobago in Orlando, with the Reds hopeful he will join up with them in time to make his debut at home to Derby County on Saturday.
The six foot two forward, whose surname is pronounced ‘Dee-kay’, has scored eight goals in 19 appearances for Orlando in MLS this season, having been drafted at the start of last year following impressive form for university side Virginia Cavaliers. He was named MLS ‘Rookie of the Year’ and finished third in the vote for 'Young Player of the Year.'
Dike, who can play as a striker or on the right of the front three and has been given the Reds’ number ten shirt, is from a successful footballing family as his brother and sister have both played for the Nigerian national teams.
The Chronicle understands Barnsley are highly unlikely to do any more business in the remainder of the transfer window which closes at 11pm tonight.
Reds chief executive Dane Murphy told the club’s website: "Most of the club’s work was completed early in this window, but we’re ecstatic to get a player of Daryl’s calibre into the squad. He has had a rapid rise in his career over the last two years showing he possess a ton of talent. The club believe he will undoubtedly prove a real asset between now and May.
“It has been well documented that Valérien (Ismael, head coach) wanted to strengthen his forward line and in the short-term, this addition goes someway to accomplish that. I must thank the group at Orlando City for allowing Daryl to join us and I have no doubt that he will be a success at Oakwell.”
