Macauley Southam-Hales, Barry Town’s impressive right-back, has been strongly linked with League One Fleetwood Town.

The former Cardiff City trainee was a right-sided midfield player for the Bluebirds’ under-23 team, while he has developed into a highly effective full-back with Welsh Premier League Barry.

Wales youth international Southam-Hales, aged 22, captained Cardiff’s under-18 team before stepping up to the next age level.

He signed a professional contract with the Bluebirds in 2014, but was released before joining Barry.

Football League clubs including Fleetwood has been watching Southam-Hales’ progress  and Barry manager Gavin Chesterfield said: “He has attracted a little bit of interest from the professional game.

“I can see why as well because of his speed and endurance, his fitness, quality and his technical ability.

“He had a great schooling at Cardiff City from the age of six and left there from the age of 20/21.”

Fleetwood were keen to complete the deal before the January transfer window closed, but that didn’t happen and neither club are making any comment.