Oxford United have arguably one of the best midfields in League One. That said, it would be healthy to bring in new faces to add competition, and if the U’s secure promotion to the Championship, then additional members would be vital.
Furthermore, the likes of Cameron Brannagan has been linked with a move away, with Leeds United and now Burnley interested in the 23-year-old. Here are five out of contract midfielders that Oxford could look to sign in the summer, depending, of course, which league the U’s are in.
(Also read: Five out of Contract Defenders Oxford Could Look to Sign)
Andre Dozzell
Andre Dozzell is a 20-year-old central midfielder currently at Ipswich Town. The youngster only burst onto the scene last season and, despite the Tractor Boys suffering relegation to League One, the midfielder scored once from 21 appearances. However, many Town fans have been disappointed with the youngster this season, feeling he hasn’t progressed as much as he should. Maybe a move away from his hometown club could be the fresh start he needs?
Alex Gilbey
Also a central midfielder, Alex Gilbey is one of MK Dons’ top talents. Last seasons club Player of the Year is now in his third season for the Dons and has surpassed 100 appearances. He has scored five goals and provided two assists in 30 League One matches this year and the 25-year-old appears to be turning into a better all-round player each season.
Scott Fraser
Burton Albion midfielder Scott Fraser is the next out of contract midfielder to make the list. The 25-year-old has been with the Brewers for two seasons having joined from Dundee United and has played 72 times for the League One side. He has scored 16 goals, with nine coming this season, including a hattrick as the U’s lost at home against Burton in August. The creative midfielder has also provided 14 assists this season.
Pelly Ruddock-Mpenza
Luton Town holding midfielder Pelly Ruddock-Mpenza has had a strong season for the Hatters, scoring three times from 35 league appearances. The 26-year-old is in his seventh season with the club, which began during the Conference days. The powerful box-to-box midfielder is a surprise to be out of contract in the summer and would be a great addition to the Oxford team.
Michael Jacobs
Another Championship player out of contract this summer is Wigan Athletic’s, Michael Jacobs. The left-winger, who can also play on the right and in the centre, has been with the Latics for five seasons and has surpassed 175 club appearances. The 28-year-old, who has turned out for Northampton and Wolves before moving to Wigan, would be a great addition to Karl Robinson’s side.
*Note: All contracts were due to expire at the time of writing. All contract information was gathered from Transfermarkt.
