If he's not set on a barbel-type rod, he might think about something at the heavy end of feeder rods. I know the action is not ideal for big barbel, and they don't usually come with test curve ratings, but if he finds there are more chub than barbel about (quite likely in many places) then a feeder rod might suit. The option of using tips which are more sensitive/revealing about bites that don't pull your rod round could be an advantage. I've got barbel rods, but I'll happily use a feeder rod (a Daiwa Spectron 11/13 Extra Heavy, lines 3-10lb, two tops, one hollow, one carrier plus tips) for fishing where I get lots of chub and a few barbel that aren't huge. The two lengths make it quite versatile and it packs down the same as a 13' float rod.