The club must use their pain as fuel for another promotion push and work has already begun on bolstering the ranks. Former Sheffield United defender Kacper Lopata has already arrived at Oakwell and it would not be surprising to see more sign on the dotted line over the course of the summer window.
Here are nine players out of contract this summer who Barnsley may be interested in.
1. Kyron Gordon
The defender was previously linked with Premier League clubs but is leaving Sheffield United upon the expiry of his contract. Photo: Mark Thompson/Getty Images
2. Stuart McKinstry
His Leeds United days appear to be over but at 21, the Scottish winger could still fulfil his potential elsewhere. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
3. Tashan Oakley-Boothe
The midfielder had a taste of League One last season whilst on loan at Lincoln City from his parent club Stoke City. He is set to leave the Potters upon the expiry of his deal. Photo: George Wood/Getty Images
4. Dejan Tetek
The 20-year-old, who has represented both England and Serbia at youth level, will soon be out of contract at Reading. Photo: Marc Atkins/Getty Images