Oxford United’s move for Linfield winger Joel Cooper is edging even closer after the 24-year-old spoke about the deal.
The U’s showed interest in May but now, as reported by BBC Sport, a deal has been struck between the two sides.
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, Cooper said: “I am looking forward to getting the deal across the line and can’t wait to make the move to Oxford United to repay the faith they have shown in me.
“It would be a step up to another level but if the deal goes through, I feel I can prove myself at that level.
“I have worked hard to get where I am and that hard work will never stop in my aim to be the best I can be for my team.
“I feel I have improved as a player since joining Linfield and I must thank the manager David Healy, the staff and my team-mates for that and also the fans.”
Cooper was due to take part in a friendly against League of Ireland side Bohemians last night but sat the game out after the U’s offer was accepted.
The winger will be the third player that Oxford have signed from Ireland in the last three years, having already seen Gavin Whyte and Mark Sykes join the League One side.
Although Whyte moved on to Cardiff City, in a deal which reached £2 million, both he and Sykes have made lasting impressions during their time at Grenoble Road.
“Gavin and Mark have gone to Oxford and shown that there is real quality in the Irish League and I want to follow in their footsteps and do well for the club. I believe I can do that,” added the winger, who has scored 13 goals and provided 17 assists this season.
