Barnsley defender Kacper Łopatą has joined Port Vale on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 22-year-old Polish born centre-back signed a four-year deal last summer then started the first nine games of the league season, before breaking his collarbone at Northampton on September 23.
He was out for two months and has since made four substitute appearances in the league.
Lopata now joins Vale who are fifth-bottom and three points clear of safety.
Bobby Hassell said: "Kacper started the season in brilliant form and integrated smoothly into the squad.
“He was unfortunate to pick up the injury but worked hard during his rehabilitation and got himself back in contention with a professional attitude.
“His minutes have been limited since his return due to the depth we have in defensive positions. For his development, we felt it was optimal for Kacper to go out and play competitive minutes and return to Oakwell in the summer.”
Jack Shepherd is also expected to leave on loan, potentially joining another League One relegation-battler in Cheltenham Town.
