In Rhys Dolan Barnsley have signed a talented player with good qualities according to Ilkeston Town manager Andy Watson.
The Reds are believed to have beaten a host of clubs to the signature of the 17-year-old left-sided player.
Dolan had played for Ilkeston's youth team as they progressed in this season's FA Youth Cup before being beaten by Newcastle United in the third round.
He has also made a handful of appearances for the Evo-Stik North outfit, who play at the same level as Shaw Lane Aquaforce, but in a different division.
Watson, who did his coaching badges alongside Lee Johnson in Scotland, said: "Barnsley are getting a a good player with good qualities.
"He's good at carrying the ball and getting forward but there is definitely room for improvement.
"Opponents can underestimate him because he's quite slight but he's a really resilient boy and he's willing to learn."
Dolan will initially link up with the under 18 and under 21 teams and is from the same set-up as Sheffield United's Che Adams.
Ilkeston are unusual for a non-league club as they have an academy with a stellar reputation of producing talent.
Watson hopes Dolan can be the latest one to make an impact in professional football.
He added: "We have got a good group of lads and we are proud to say we offer them a platform to move on and we're delighted when they do.
"He's not overly fazed by anything and he will only improve with experience. We hope he can be successful."
Johnson says they have been watching Dolan, who is from Nottinghamshire and has never been with a professional club before, for some time.
"The scouting system has pulled him up. We have had some good reports on him and he's come from a good little youth setup there," added Johnson.
"He will come in to our 18 and 21 group and we will see how he develops. He certainly seems like a lad who has the bit between his teeth to do well for the club."
