Oxford United are one of several Football League clubs believed to be “admirers” of Colchester midfielder, Ossama Ashley, according to Mike McGrath.
However, the Telegraph reporter claims that Salford are currently leading the race for the former West Ham man.
It is also believed that MK Dons and League One rivals Portsmouth are showing interest in a deal which should be around £150k.
The 23-year-old, who came through the academy at AFC Wimbledon before joining the Hammers in 2020, penned a one-year deal with Colchester last summer.
Ashley played 35 times for the Essex club, including 28 times in the league, having previously failed to turn out for West Ham’s senior side during his two years at the London Stadium.
The U’s have already brought in Josh McEachran to bolster the midfield and have been heavily linked with Arsenal man, Tim Akinola, but recent reports claim the latter would prefer a move abroad.
