Reuben Noble-Lazarus has joined Rochdale on a permanent deal from Barnsley following a loan spell at Spotland Stadium.
The striker, 21, has penned an 18-month contract after scoring two goals in six games for the Dale.
Noble-Lazarus started his professional career with Barnsley in 2008.
"He's an exciting player," manager Keith Hill told Rochdale's official website. "He's got outstanding qualities and I'm glad that we've got him signed up for next season as well because that was our intention.
"It's not just for this season - we wanted some benefit from signing him and I feel as though signing him on an 18-month contract gives the football club, Reuben and myself, the best opportunity for Reuben to express himself and to find a home."
Noble-Lazarus became the Football League's youngest appearance-maker in 2008 when he debuted for Barnsley at the age of 15 years and 45 days.
