West Bromwich Albion sign 22-year-old striker Barney Stewart from Falkirk.
West Brom transfer caps remarkable 18-month rise for Falkirk forward
Falkirk have completed the sale of forward Barney Stewart to West Bromwich Albion for a club-record fee, just 18 months after he was playing non-league football with Heriot-Watt University.
The 22-year-old Scotland Under-21 international has signed a four-year contract with the EFL Championship club, with Falkirk confirming the deal includes the potential for significant add-ons.
Stewart’s rise has been rapid since being identified by manager John McGlynn in 2024 while playing in the East of Scotland League. After joining Falkirk, he gained further experience during a loan spell at Dunfermline before returning to make a decisive impact in the second half of last season, scoring nine goals after January.
In a statement, Falkirk praised both his on-field contribution and influence within the squad.
“During his time with Falkirk, Barney became a fan favourite, not just for his ability on the pitch, but also for his personality off it,” the club said. “His energy, positivity and enthusiasm were infectious, making him an important member of a very tight-knit dressing room.
“Barney leaves with the best wishes of everyone at Falkirk Football Club. We wish him every success in the next stage of what we believe will be a very promising career.”
Stewart expressed his enthusiasm for the move and the challenge of Championship football.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to play in the Championship,” he told West Brom’s official website. “It’s a highly competitive league and one I’ve always enjoyed watching.
“I’m confident in my ability to score goals at this level. I’ve shown that with Dunfermline and Falkirk, and I’m looking forward to carrying that form into pre-season and the season ahead.”