AFC Barrow have strengthened their squad with the signing of experienced winger Tom Barkhuizen, following his departure from Derby County, as per the announcement on the Club Website.
The 32-year-old has signed a two-year contract at Holker Street, dropping down two divisions to join the League Two side after his contract at Pride Park expired earlier this summer.
Barkhuizen arrives with a wealth of Football League pedigree, having played over 350 senior matches across the Championship, League One and League Two. His addition is seen as a significant statement of intent as Barrow look to build on last season’s mid-table finish and mount a stronger push for promotion in 2025/26.
Premier League Roots to League Two Ambition
The Lancashire-born wide forward began his career at Blackpool, coming through the academy during the club’s only Premier League season in 2010/11. After making a handful of cup appearances for the Tangerines, he enjoyed a breakthrough campaign on loan at Hereford United the following year, scoring 11 goals in 38 appearances.
Subsequent loan spells with Fleetwood Town and Morecambe helped further his development before he joined the latter on a permanent basis in 2015. During his time at the Globe Arena, Barkhuizen scored 26 goals in 64 appearances across all competitions.
His form attracted interest from higher up the pyramid, and in November 2016, he joined Championship side Preston North End. Over five-and-a-half seasons at Deepdale, he became a consistent performer, making 209 appearances and contributing 33 goals and 26 assists.
Reliable Performer Across All Levels
Barkhuizen signed for Derby County in the summer of 2022 following the Rams’ relegation to League One. Over the course of three seasons at Pride Park, he racked up 113 appearances and played a key role in helping the club return to the Championship in 2023/24.
Though he featured less frequently during the 2024/25 campaign, making 22 appearances in all competitions, he remained a respected senior figure in the squad before leaving the club at the conclusion of his contract.
His arrival at Holker Street gives Barrow both quality and versatility in attack, with the winger capable of playing across the front line. He brings with him not just experience, but also a proven eye for goal and tactical intelligence developed from over a decade in the professional game.
Site Opinion
This signing represents a major coup for Barrow. Few League Two clubs can boast of adding a player with Barkhuizen’s calibre, let alone someone who has featured in the Premier League and enjoyed sustained spells at Championship level.
At 32, he still has plenty to offer, particularly in a system that values direct running and end product. His ability to slot into various attacking roles will be vital for Andy Whing as he looks to build a balanced and competitive squad for the new campaign.
Given his pedigree, leadership, and fitness record, Barkhuizen could be a transformative figure in Barrow’s 2025/26 season. It’s a smart, ambitious move by a club with growing aspirations.
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