Irish forward David McGoldrick, 38, has moved to Mansfield Town on a free transfer, signing a one-year contract. The forward was a free agent after his departure from Barnsley. Mansfield manager Nigel Clough stated that the club pursued McGoldrick primarily for his quality in the final third, which was an area they had identified for improvement. For Barnsley in League One during the 2025/2026 season, McGoldrick made 37 appearances, scored 15 goals, and provided 3 assists. The club's owners, Mr & Mrs Radford, sanctioned and supported the transfer. It was reported that Stephen Quinn, a member of the club's backroom staff, played a key role in the move. Quinn previously played with McGoldrick for the Republic of Ireland, for whom McGoldrick has 14 caps and one goal. The transfer is considered notable because McGoldrick is a supporter of and a former player for Notts County, who are Mansfield's rivals.