Barnsley are in the midst of a huge transition following the takeover of Chinese businessman Chien Lee, with the Tykes entering an exciting new period.

The billionaire, who also owns French side Nice, has big plans for the South Yorkshire side, and has proven his ability to deliver success following his spell with Nice.

The Cote D’Azur side qualified for this year’s Champions League qualifying stage after finishing third in Ligue 1, with the The Eaglets pushing for a second successive season of European competition this semester.

Despite the promise of investment and growth at the club, fans had allayed fears that the club would become a ‘feeder club’ to the French side, in a similar way Watford operated alongside Granada and Udinese when they were taken over by the Pozzo family.

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However, co-chairman Paul Conway has put those fears to rest, but stressed that the clubs would co-operate when necessary.

“Any investment we do is our own independent investment, but we will look for sharing of resources when they make sense,” he told The Yorkshire Post.

“(But) all of the decisions made here at Barnsley will be made for the long-term benefit of Barnsley.

“Similar to what we have done at Nice, you would expect us to bring in some of our resources and other partners to compliment the club and expand the resources of Barnsley.”

The Verdict

Barnsley appear to be a club on the up, and fans will be delighted with the takeover of their club.

Links with Nice can only be a good thing, and if the French side are willing to offer some of their fringe players to Barnsley to help the Tykes in the league, then a number of quality stars could be seen at Oakwell.

Watford were promoted under the Pozzo’s, and used their connection with Granada and Udinese to great effect.

Whether this partnership eventually leads to promotion remains to be seen, but with Lee in charge and not short of cash, the Tykes will soon be in an excellent position to challenge for promotion in the next few years.

Tykes fans, are you excited or nervous about your future following the takeover? Have your say below...