Barnsley asked Rotherham United about ground-share plan at New York Stadium

The idea is understood to have been quickly rejected after it was mooted by the Reds’ majority shareholders.

A national report revealed earlier this season that Barnsley had held talks with other EFL clubs – including two in Lancashire – about a shock move away from Oakwell amid a row over the purchase of the ground between the club’s majority shareholders and the Cryne family, who retain a 20 per cent shareholding.

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council owns 50 per cent of Oakwell with the Cryne family owning the other half.

The report claimed that a source close to the club said that the blocking of a previous attempt to buy half of the stadium from the authority left the Reds’ majority shareholders ‘discouraged and immediately seeking alternative arrangements’.

News of Barnsley’s potential relocation prompted the leader of Barnsley Council, Cllr Sir Steve Houghton CBE to voice his shock and dismay at the possible development, while pledging that the authority would do all they could to ensure that professional football remains in the town.

Any move would need permission from the EFL board.

Meanwhile, head coach Valerien Ismael is confident the Reds will do everything in their power to keep Alex Mowatt after rejecting a bid from a rival club.

The Barnsley captain’s contract expires in June – and he has yet to agree fresh terms.

If a deal is not agreed by the end of the transfer window and talks continue to fail to yield a breakthrough, Mowatt can leave for nothing at the end of 2020-21.

Ismael said: “Money is not all. Alex’s situation means he is a special player. In these situations, you have to think if it is really worth selling him or is it better to play with him and try everything to extend his contract – even if we do this after the January transfer window.

“This is the right way. I spoke with Alex and have a good feeling with him and we are on the same page and all focused for Barnsley.

“We will try everything to extend his contract. I am a fighter and was a defender and don’t let in goals without a fight!”

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive members-only offers. Click HERE to subscribe.