Middlesbrough v Barnsley: Hammers striker for Reds

Nouble, who made four appearances for the Tykes last season, is poised to join the club on loan again, possibly until the end of the season.

Manager Keith Hill also revealed that midfield player Jacob Butterfield is set to leave the club in the summer after rejecting a new deal.

Butterfield, 21, will not play again this season due to a cruciate knee ligament injury suffered against Leeds United on New Year’s Eve.

He is out of contract in the summer but the Tykes are entitled to compensation if he leaves because he is under the age of 24.

“Do I want to keep the best young midfielder in the Championship? Of course I do,” said Hill. “But this club cannot compete financially with other clubs in this league and we keep losing players.

“We have offered Jacob a contract but he will receive other offers that are much better financially. I think he will probably leave at the end of the season.”

Hill attempted to sign Carayol as a replacement for winger Ricardo Vaz, who moved to West Ham United in the transfer window.

Tonight, the Tykes travel to promotion-chasing Middlesbrough.

Last six games: Boro DDWWLW Barnsley LLWLLD

Last time: Boro 1 Barnsley 1, April 16, 2011, Championship.

Referee: P Walton (Northamptonshire).