York City co-owner Matt Uggla addresses talk of Barnsley FC and Hibs interest in Josh Stones

Stones has impressed in the National League this season, registering eight goals and four assists in 22 appearances for the Minstermen.

The 22-year-old caught the eye at Oakwell earlier in the season, effectively leading the York line in an FA Cup battle with Barnsley in November.

There has been speculation regarding the future of the young frontman, who was nurtured in the academy of West Yorkshire outfit Guiseley.

Matt Uggla on Josh Stones

However, Uggla has moved to ease concerns about Stones being lured away.

Reporter Alan Nixon, via his Patreon page, has credited Barnsley and Scottish side Hibernian with interest in Stones. The report also claims Wigan Athletic, who York signed Stones from, have first refusal on the marksman.

Responding via social media platform X, Uggla said: “Categorically not happening! I’m sure there’s interest. I’m interested in Dua Lipa, doesn’t mean I’m getting her.”

Josh Stones’ career path

After showing promise as a teenager at Guiseley, Stones was prised from Nethermoor by Wigan in 2022. However, he was afforded just 16 outings for the Latics.

He had loan spells at Ross County and Oldham Athletic, eventually sealing a permanent exit when he joined York in January last year.

In total, Stones has racked up 45 appearances and 16 goals for the fifth-tier side.

York currently sit fourth in the National League table, although are just three points adrift of pace-setters Carlisle United with two games in hand.

Barnsley, on the other hand, are languishing in the bottom half of the League One table. Following a dismal run of results, the Reds occupy 17th place, but they do have games in hand.

Head coach Conor Hourihane has made it clear he wants signings, although new blood is yet to arrive at Oakwell.

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