James Norwood has left Barnsley to join National League Oldham Athletic for an undisclosed fee.
Striker Norwood played and scored in Barnsley’s 2-1 friendly win over Crewe Alexandra on Saturday but indicated afterwards to the press and, allegedly, fans that it was his final game.
Oldham are one of the favourites for promotion in the National League this coming season and thought to have a significant budget for that level.
Norwood, who will be 33 next month, scored 11 goals last season – his first after joining from Ipswich – and added four during this pre-season.
The Reds triggered an extension in his contract to keep him for this season.
Barnsley also have Norwood’s strikepartner from last season Devante Cole, new signings Max Watters and Andy Dallas, January arrival Oli Shaw plus youngsters Fabio Jalo and Aiden Marsh.
