Barnet have announced six free‑transfer arrivals this summer, the biggest influx of new faces since their promotion push two seasons ago. The Bees secured Zac Williams from Crewe Alexandra, Charlie Lakin from Walsall, Taye Ashby‑Hammond from Stevenage, Brandon Comley also from Walsall, Tom Knowles from Forest Green Rovers and Craig Farquhar from Crystal Palace, all before the window closes.
Who are the new signings and what do they bring?
Williams, a versatile full‑back, adds depth on the left flank after a solid spell at Crewe. Lakin, a midfield engine, impressed at Walsall with his box‑to‑box work rate and will compete for a starting spot alongside veteran James Bennett. Ashby‑Hammond, a young goalkeeper, provides competition for first‑choice keeper James Bennett, while Comley, a seasoned defender, brings leadership after years in the Championship. Knowles, a forward with a knack for late runs, could bolster the attack that already boasts 70 goals this season. Farquhar, a promising academy graduate from Crystal Palace, adds a technical edge to the midfield.
Who left the club and why?
Barnet said goodbye to several players on free transfers, including Callum Stead to Cambridge United and Anthony Hartigan to Southend United. Midfielder Mark Shelton joined York City, while striker Joe Kizzi dropped to Hornchurch. Defensive options Rhys Browne and Emmanuel Osadebe also departed, seeking regular football elsewhere. The club released a handful of fringe players – Britt Assombalonga, Oli Hawkins and Myles Kenlock – as part of a squad‑trimming exercise to keep the wage bill manageable.
How does this reshape Barnet’s prospects?
The influx of free talent arrives as Barnet sit eighth in League Two with 76 points, a record of 21 wins, 13 draws and 12 losses from 46 games. Their recent form is immaculate – five straight victories, the latest a 2‑1 win over Harrogate Town on 2 May 2026. Scoring 70 goals while conceding 53 gives them a +17 goal difference, but they remain 11 points behind leaders Bromley. The new arrivals could provide the extra quality needed to close that gap and sustain the winning run.
What’s next for the Bees?
Pre‑season fixtures will give manager John McGreal a chance to integrate the newcomers and experiment with formations. With the league campaign set to kick off on 15 August, the Bees will look to turn their strong finish into a consistent challenge for promotion. Fans will be watching closely to see if the free signings can replicate the form that has seen Barnet climb back into the top half of the table.
Barnet’s transfer activity, combined with their current standing – eighth in League Two, 76 points, 21W‑13D‑12L – and a five‑game winning streak, suggests a club ready to push higher up the table this season.
