Barnsley set to see off Dons in race for O'Brien

O'Brien, 22, has been offered a three-year deal at Oakwell and is keen to move south of the border after spending five seasons in the Scottish Premier League.

Barnsley have beaten off competition from Aberdeen for his services, highlighting the gulf that exists financially between English and Scottish clubs.

Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee said: "We imagine, and the fans imagine, that there is no comparison between Aberdeen and Barnsley but, these days, I'm afraid there is.

"I think there are two things going on.

"One is that they can outbid us – they have the finances, even in the Championship, to make it difficult for us – but I think the boys themselves feel if they get the opportunity to go to the English league that they should then take it.

"There are a lot more clubs, bigger and better than Barnsley, who will see Jim O'Brien if he's playing for Barnsley who may take him onto the next level," added McGhee.

"And there is no player, regardless of sentiment, who is going to come here for less than half the money he can get at Barnsley or anywhere else."

Barnsley general manager Don Rowing confirmed that O'Brien is wanted by manager Mark Robins and is scheduled for talks.

"He's a player who has come highly recommended and Mark has watched him, sees great potential in him, and is keen to sign him," said Rowing.

O'Brien has spent the last two seasons with Motherwell but started his career at Celtic and also played on loan for Dundee United. His arrival is part of a summer shake-up at Barnsley which began earlier this week when the club released several players, including strikers Daniel Bogdanovic, Jon Macken and Michael Coulson.

Bradford City will host The Co-operative 'War of the Roses' Charity Football Match this Sunday to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Valley Parade fire disaster.

Former players including Peter Beagrie, Stuart McCall and Wayne Jacobs will play against The Co-operative Challenge Trophy Cup finalists Clitheroe and all money raised will go to the Bradford Burns & Research Unit.

Admission to the event, which kicks off at 3pm, is free although donations can be made.