McAtee, 24, older brother of Manchester City midfielder James, will provide another attacking option at the top of the pitch for the Reds.
The forward was part of the Grimsby Town squad that made history last term in reaching the quarter-finals of the FA Cup – the first side from the
The Salford-born player, whose other clubs include Shrewsbury and Scunthorpe, said: “The move has been in the pipeline for quite a while.
“I was buzzing to come down and get it all sorted.”
Barnsley FC CEO, Khaled El-Ahmad said: “We are happy to welcome John to Oakwell.
“We wish him all the best during his time with the club and look forward to seeing him in action out on the pitch
The Millers are in the box seat to sign the striker, who hit 17 goals for the Grecians last term.
Rotherham chief and former Exeter manager Matt Taylor brought Nombe to Exeter from MK Dons in the summer of 2021
Yorkshire rivals Barnsley had been also keen on Nombe, but he is now destined for elsewhere. Late last week, Birmingham and Wrexham were also reportedly credited with interest.
Speaking after Exeter’s EFL Cup tie with Stevenage on Tuesday night, Caldwell confirmed ‘a couple of bids’ have been accepted.
“Sam is speaking with other clubs and we will have to wait to see what develops,” he said.
“There is no definitive movement yet. He is talking with other clubs and we have accepted a couple of bids and I am sure there will be more information on that tomorrow (Wednesday).”
