Oxford United have made their fourth signing of the summer with the arrival of Slovenian striker, Nik Prelec.
The 24-year-old has joined the U’s on a season-long loan from Serie A side Cagliari, but Fabrizio Romano has claimed that there is an obligation to buy next summer.
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Oxford United Sign Slovenian Striker Nik Prelec
Who Is Nik Prelec?
Born in Maribor, Slovenia, Nik Prelec came through the academy at Sampdoria in Italy. However, the striker didn’t make a first team appearance for I Blucerchiati.
He spent time on loan back home at Olimpija Ljubljana before spending one season at WSG Tirol. From there, Prelec moved back to Italy and signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Cagliari.
But he was again sent out on loan, first again to his former club WSG Tirol, before turning out for Austria Wien.
The striker has also represented Slovenia at various age groups from U16 to U21s.
What Was Said
“I’m really excited to get started, knowing I’m going to be playing in the Championship with Oxford United,” Prelec said upon signing. “This is a big opportunity and chance for me in my career.
“I had some good conversations with the people in the club about the project and they really convinced me that this is the place to be.
“This is what I love. I put in everything I can every day to be better, and I feel ready for this move.
“Hopefully the fans will see a lot of goals, work rate, and someone who fights for the team. I can’t wait to get that first goal in front of the fans. I understand the Championship is a different challenge and I want to make my mark.”
Head Coach, Gary Rowett, said: “Nik has a lot of strong qualities which makes this an exciting signing for the club.
“He is a quick and powerful presence up front, with a good goalscoring record in a highly competitive Austrian league.
“He brings a really imposing threat to the top end of our team and has fantastic experience for his age. We hope he will be an important player and help to complement the rest of our team.”
