Stephen Humphrys has made a significant move this summer, turning down a contract offer from Barnsley FC to join League One rivals Bradford City. The 27-year-old winger, who joined Barnsley last summer, impressed with nine goals in 41 appearances during the 2024-25 season. Despite being offered a new deal by the Reds, Humphrys opted to become Bradford City's sixth signing of the close season, aiming to be part of the newly-promoted Bantams' exciting journey.
Humphrys took to social media to express his gratitude towards Barnsley FC, writing, "I want to thank every single player, coach, member of staff and most importantly the brilliant fans at Barnsley FC for the time I spent at the club. I’ve made some friends for life and memories to last a lifetime." He also revealed that he realized early after the summer of 2024 that Barnsley "weren’t in a position to continue the journey," adding his confidence in Conor Hourihane's leadership by stating, "I believe Conor is the man to take the club forward." Humphrys wished the club all the best for the season and beyond.
The striker’s departure comes amid Barnsley’s efforts to strengthen their squad, including heavy links to a loan deal for Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Murphy Cooper. Barnsley is due to start their pre-season preparations on Monday, June 23, 2025, signaling a busy summer ahead for the club.
Humphrys’ contract situation was complex. Although Barnsley reportedly held a club option to extend his contract by a year beyond June 2025, this was contingent on various conditions that were not met. Following that, the Reds entered into fresh discussions with Humphrys, but ultimately, the player chose to join Bradford City, where he sees new opportunities.
Bradford City's manager Graham Alexander welcomed Humphrys enthusiastically, highlighting the winger’s attributes: "Stephen will add genuine pace and power to our front line, while giving us an extra goal threat with his finishing ability. I believe he has his best years ahead of him. After meeting with Stephen, I know he is determined and ambitious enough to put the work in to become an even better player. We are very happy to have him here."
Humphrys, who has previously played for Wigan Athletic and Heart of Midlothian, expressed his excitement about joining Bradford City, inspired by the club’s recent promotion celebrations. "Everyone saw the scenes last season on the last day. Obviously the club got promoted, just seeing those scenes made me want to be a part of it. Hopefully we can create more memories like that," he said.
Alongside Humphrys, Bradford City is also set to welcome another key signing, Ibou Touray. The Gambian international defender will join the Bantams on a two-year deal starting July 1, 2025, after his contract with League One side Stockport County expires. Touray, 30, has made 89 appearances for Stockport County over two seasons, having joined from Salford City in June 2023.
Touray’s connection with Bradford City manager Graham Alexander played a pivotal role in his decision to sign. The pair previously worked together at Salford City, where Touray contributed to back-to-back promotions, including the club’s rise to the Football League in the 2018-19 season. Last season, Touray made 50 appearances and helped Stockport reach the play-off semi-finals, while the previous campaign saw him play a key role in County’s League Two title-winning side.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Touray said, "I am delighted to be here and I am really excited to get going. Working with Graham Alexander before, he was a real pull for me joining the club." His experience and consistent mindset are expected to add considerable strength to Bradford City’s defense.
Manager Alexander praised Touray as "another top performer" with a "consistent mindset and approach" who "can defend and attack with quality, so I am certain he will be a great success for us over the coming seasons." This signing, along with Humphrys’, signals Bradford City’s intent to build a competitive squad capable of making an impact in League One.
As the summer transfer window progresses, Bradford City appears to be assembling a squad with a blend of pace, power, experience, and ambition. Humphrys’ arrival adds a dynamic goal threat to their frontline, while Touray’s defensive qualities and leadership will bolster their backline. The club’s recent promotion has generated momentum, and these signings suggest a determined effort to sustain and build on that success.
Meanwhile, Barnsley faces the challenge of replacing a key attacking player while preparing for the upcoming season. Their pursuit of Murphy Cooper on loan hints at strategic moves to strengthen their squad depth, particularly in goal. The Reds’ pre-season, set to commence on June 23, 2025, will be critical in shaping their campaign and integrating new personnel.
Humphrys’ decision to move to Bradford City reflects the shifting dynamics within League One as clubs reposition themselves for the new season. His belief in the club’s vision, inspired by the promotion celebrations and the leadership of Graham Alexander, underscores a fresh chapter in his career. For Bradford City fans, the addition of a player described as having the 'X-Factor' by Conor Hourihane offers genuine excitement and hope for the season ahead.
With both clubs actively maneuvering in the transfer market, the upcoming months promise to be a fascinating period of development and competition. As Humphrys and Touray prepare to don the Bradford City colors, and Barnsley works to reinforce its squad, League One football is gearing up for another thrilling chapter.
