I know he's too old, but any chance Barlow moves positions ala Long? I dont see it, but just a thought. Man, I wish BWP was here. Not only starting in a 2 striker set up, but training/drilling guys just like Henry did for him.
We tried converting several players without mixed success.
Stefano Bonomo was tried at center back a few times in USL when we were stacked at striker (sigh). He ended up playing well enough up front to get a MLS deal.
We drafted Ethan Kutler with the intent to convert him from a midfielder to an outside back. He did really well after a few months and earned the MLS contract, before he lost the desire to play soccer.
We drafted Janos Loebe who we knew well from his time with our U23s and was a well known attacking player. Converted to outside back but only lasted last season here. Played well in Miami this year in a few positions, but MLS may be a stretch.
All these guys were out of college, Bonomo was around the same age as Barlow is now.