Shackell snubs Doncaster to join rivals Barnsley

Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll wanted Shackell to stay on at the Keepmoat Stadium after his impressive stint on loan this season.

However, Barnsley manager Mark Robins has persuaded the defender to move to Oakwell on a three-year deal.

Rovers are also set to lose defender Gareth Roberts – who has rejected a new contract and is on the brink of a move to Championship rivals Derby County.

Chairman John Ryan last night stressed the need for Rovers to stay in control of their finances, saying: "We made a very substantial offer for Jason but we are not prepared to go beyond our financial limitations. Barnsley must have deeper pockets than us."

Shackell made 23 appearances on loan for Rovers this season but missed the final three months with a groin injury. He joined Wolves two summers ago in a 1m move from Norwich City but started only four games for the Premier League club.

Although Barnsley have not disclosed the transfer fee, it is understood that Shackell was valued at 500,000 by Wolves.

"Football can be a crazy game and sometimes you never know if you are coming or going," admitted Shackell. "Wolves have done fantastic and I never really established myself there at any point.

"I had a good year at Doncaster, a good club with a good manager, and I wish them all the best – but this feels like the right place for me at this stage of my career.

"A three-year deal will settle me down because I know where I am going to be for the forseeable future and I can concentrate on playing my football.

"The gaffer (Robins) is really ambitious and wants to push on with Barnsley. He was keen to get me in, he's enthusiastic and has ambition and drive.

"I am looking forward to getting over the summer and coming back ready to go.

"I am ambitious and I want to be in the top half of the table pushing on."

Robins has signed Shackell as a replacement for veteran Darren Moore who has been released.

"I am delighted to have signed Jason," said Robins. "He has proven himself to be a more than capable Championship player and is a leader on the pitch. I am looking forward to a long and successful working relationship with him here at Barnsley FC."

Shackell is the second signing of the summer for Barnsley after Motherwell winger Jim O'Brien.

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy, who was born in Barnsley and played for the Tykes, said: "Jason is a great lad and a good player but, sadly, things didn't work out for him here. He is off to a good club in Barnsley, my old club, and we all wish him well for the future."