Oxford United have continued to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Championship campaign.
Des Buckingham has seen the arrival of midfielder Idris El Mizouni while the U’s were also looking at another full back.
Also this week, Oxford took part in their first game of pre-season during their warm weather training camp in Spain.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Another Arrival and Pre-Season Defeat
‘Close to Joining’
Ipswich midfielder Idris El Mizouni was “close to joining” Oxford, according to Stuart Watson.
The reporter claimed the U’s had agreed three-year contract with a £400k transfer for the 23-year-old, who has impressed on loan at Leyton Orient.
Oxford Eyeing Up Sturm Graz Defender
Oxford are one of three EFL clubs monitoring a move for Sturm Graz right-back, Max Johnston, according to Anthony Joseph.
Luton and Birmingham have also enquired about the 20-year-old who could be available for a loan move.
The defender made 29 appearances and won the Austrian Bundesliga & Austrian Cup last season.
Mizouni Pens Long-Term Deal
After reports saying it was a done deal, the U’s then announced El Mizouni on a “long-term” deal.
Speaking to the club after signing, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted to join the club. It’s a solid club that has made a step up to the Championship and it was very attractive to me.
“It’s a team that always likes to play football and I want to be a part of that and move upwards with the club.
“I want to prove myself as a player and prove to everyone that I can play at this level. More importantly, I want to help the club achieve their ambitions.”
Des Buckingham said: “Idris brings a lot of qualities that fit into the profile we were looking for to continue developing the dynamic of our midfield.
“He has shown over the last few seasons his strong attributes that will allow us to play different ways while being another young player with huge further potential.
“I’m excited to work with him and continue to help develop his skill set as we move forwards into the Championship.
“It’s fantastic that we have brought him in at a time where he can join the group over here in Spain which will help him adapt to our environment quickly as we prepare for the first of the upcoming pre-season games.”
U’s Lose Pre-Season Friendly
Oxford’s pre-season got off to a losing start with a narrow defeat against Portuguese side, Académico de Viseu.
The LigaPro side won 1-0 in a behind-closed-doors match during the U’s warm weather training camp in Spain.
Oxford United to Welcome the Saints
Sticking with pre-season the club announced their final friendly ahead of a new campaign with the visit of Southampton.
The newly-promoted Premier League side travel to the Kassam on Wednesday, July 31 with a 7.45pm kick-off.
