Oxford United have made their first signing of the summer with the arrival of Belgian midfielder, Brian De Keersmaecker.
The 25-year-old has joined the U’s from Dutch side, Heracles, where he has spent the past two seasons.
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Oxford United Make First Signing of the Summer
Who Is Brian De Keersmaecker?
Born in Bornem, Belgium, Brian De Keersmaecker spent time at several youth academies before breaking through at Beerschot in 2019.
The midfielder also spent time on loan at FC Eindhoven before joining the Eerste Divisie side on a permanent basis.
He then joined Eredivisie side Heracles in 2023 and has since scored seven goals and added six assists from 70 appearances.
A tough-tackling midfielder, De Keersmaecker is know for getting stuck in but also helping his side up the pitch.
The Heracles captain was linked with a move to Danish side FC Midtjylland in January but a move was blocked with the condition of a departure this summer.
What Was Said
Speaking after signing, he said: “I’ve shown at previous clubs that I can be a very important player. It is my aim that I can do the same here at Oxford United and be even better than before.
“There have been a lot of conversations with the people at the club. I spoke to the head coach several times and he gave me a good feeling that I am going to be important here.
“This is a big step in my own self development. I’m ready for this challenge, to move to a new city, and perform in such a competitive league.
“As a player, I’m very aggressive. As soon as we lose the ball, I want to get it back as quickly as possible. You will always see me giving 100 percent for the cause.
“I will do everything I can to bring more success to this Club, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Head Coach, Gary Rowett, said: “Brian was a player who was brought to my attention very early on when I joined the club.
“We had the chance to watch Brian play in person last season and you could see his attributes immediately. He can control a game of football with his quality in possession, and he also has an outstanding work rate off the ball.
“He is a fantastic addition to the group. We feel he is ready to be an important player for the club and will raise the level of our ceiling.”
