Yoganathan Signs On Loan

Oldham Athletic are pleased to announce the signing of Vimal Yoganathan on a loan deal until 30 June.

The 19-year-old midfielder joins from Barnsley where he has been since 2021, in that time he has become very highly rated amongst the Tykes backroom staff and fans.

He has made 15 appearances so far for the first team, scoring two goals, both coming in an EFL Trophy game this season against Manchester United U21s.

“This is a really exciting opportunity for me that I can’t wait to get stuck into,” he said.

“I believe that this is an opportunity that can get the best out of me, it seems a great group and I’ve been made to feel very welcome already.

“I want to come here get as many minutes as possible, make an impact and help the team to finish as high as we possibly can.

“There was other interest but I feel this is a great opportunity for me to gain some much needed experience and take a step forward in my career."

Vimal’s career began at his local side Connah’s Quay Nomads before a move to Prestatyn Town.

At six years old, he was picked up by Premier League giants Liverpool and two years later he officially signed for the club’s academy.

After seven years within the Reds’ academy, Yoganathan joined Barnsley’s Under 16 side.

Instantly people could see his potential and he was moved to the Under 18s side where he helped them lift the title in 2023, playing 29 games.

On 8 August 2023, he made his first team debut in an EFL Cup game against Tranmere Rovers coming on as a 65th minute substitute.

Coming on allowed Vimal to create a little bit of history, he became the first player of Tamil heritage to play in the English game.

Vimal grew in Trelawnyd, Wales and was called up by Wales at youth level. He made his Under 19s debut in March 2024 against Belgium and has made three appearances.

He played five times in the 2023/24 season and this campaign has made 10 appearances, scoring two goals.

He also started in Barnsley’s EFL Cup fixture this season against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Manager Micky Mellon on acquiring Vimal’s services said: “Vimal brings real talent to the group, he’s a player that Barnsley rate very highly so we’re thankful they’ve allowed us to take him.

“He’s recently signed a new deal there which speaks volumes of how highly thought of he is.

“He loves getting on the football, wants to score goals and when driving forward he is a very, very talented player.

“We believe he will add something different to the group, we’ve lost a lot of midfield players recently either from them moving on or injury.

“As a coaching staff we feel he will be a great addition and we’re very excited about having Vimal here.”

He will wear the number 28 shirt.

Welcome to the club, Vimal.