Mansfield Town see off competition to sign new striker David McGoldrick

The forward joins the Stags on a free transfer, following the expiration of his contract with League One rivals Barnsley. He has penned a one-year deal with the club.

Mansfield saw off competition from other clubs, including Barnsley themselves, for the signing of McGoldrick. The link emerged last month following the end of the season, with Stags emerging as front-runners for the 38-year-old’s signature. The Tykes were reportedly looking to tie him down with a contract extension after he scored 18 goals in all competitions last season.

McGoldrick’s goal haul included 15 in League One, which Stags fans will hope he can recreate in amber and blue this coming campaign.

Nigel Clough confirmed his side were gunning for more firepower in their attacking ranks this summer as they look to build on their solid 2025/26 season. Mansfield Town finished tenth in the table after losing just one of their last 15 fixtures.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to sign David who arrives at Mansfield Town with an impeccable track record at this level and above,” Clough said.

“The quality that he possesses in the final third was the main reason we pursued him. Our assessment at the end of the season was that we needed a little difference in the final third. With the permanent signing of Tyler Roberts, and now David McGoldrick, to add to Rhys Oates and Will Evans, it gives us good options in attack.

“Our sincere thanks to the club’s owners, Mr and Mrs Radford, who have supported and sanctioned the signing, as well as to Stephen Quinn [part of the club’s backroom staff] who was instrumental in David joining us having played with him at Republic of Ireland.”