Oxford United are in need of a striker. The U’s boast 33-year-old Jamie Mackie as their only natural front man, along with a handful of promising youngsters.
But if Karl Robinson wants to push on from the clubs mid-table finish, he will need to invest in a decent striker, or two.
Vital Oxford takes a look at three out of contract forwards that the U’s could sign.
Since his arrival at Blackpool in 2017, 24-year-old striker Max Clayton has been plagued with injury.
Prior to his arrival at Bloomfield Road, Clayton managed over 100 appearances for Bolton Wanderers and Crewe Alexander respectively.
Admittedly, his goalscoring record isn’t great and he has struggled with injuries, but the U’s took a chance when re-signing Rob Hall following his injury concerns, and it appears to have paid off.
If Robinson could tie him up on a pay-as-you-play contract, this could benefit both the club and the player.
27-year-old striker Tom Eaves contract expired at League One rivals Gillingham in the summer after he netted an impressive 22 goals for the Kent club.
The forward has scored 40 in 97 during his time with the Gills, and has boosted his credentials.
He will certainly attract Championship interest, but can he cut it at that level? If Robinson could convince the forward that another year in the division at a different club may benefit him in the next campaign, it could be a smart move.
But, Eaves has ambitions to play at a higher level, but if the U’s could sign him, it would be a major coup for the club.
Former Manchester City academy player David Ball is a free agent after his release from Rotherham United.
The 29-year-old, who has turned out for Peterborough United, Rochdale and Fleetwood Town before his move to the Millers, spent last season on loan at Bradford City.
But his five goals from 35 appearances were unable to keep The Bantams in League One, and following Rotherham’s relegation themselves from the Championship, Ball was released.
