Even though there have been no games, it was still a busy week for Oxford United with the transfer deadline day dominating proceedings.
The U’s saw three departures and one new arrival on Monday before submitting their 25-man squad for the upcoming campaign.
Read More: Oxford United Transfer Round-Up: Seven In and Squad Depth Reduced
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Deadline Day and International Duty
U’s Land Bulgaria International
Oxford made their first deadline day signing with the arrival of Bulgarian international, Filip Krastev.
The 23-year-old has joined the U’s on a season-long loan from Belgian side Lommel.
Capped 24 times by Bulgaria, Krastev came through the youth setup of Slavia Sofia where he spent ten years.
He joined Lommel, which is part of the City Group, in 2020 but has yet to feature for the club, having spent time away on loan at Levski Sofia, Los Angeles FC and PEC Zwolle, among others.
After signing for Oxford United, Krastev said: “There is no better place to play football than here in England.
“I’m very happy and thankful to make this move happen. I will give everything back to the club to help drive us forward.
“I want to push myself to the limits on a personal level and with the team I play for. I want to achieve great things with the club and win every possible game.
“I don’t want to set boundaries on what I can achieve. It’s my job to score goals, create chances, and take this challenge on.
“I am a strong person because of the career I have had so far. I’m thankful I get to play football and let’s see what we can accomplish by the end of the season.”
Head coach, Gary Rowett, said: “Filip is a player with wonderful ability who can add a lot of energy to the team.
“He will provide a creative spark, with a clear eye for goal and an ability to deliver moments of quality.
“We believe Filip will add something new and exciting to the group and we look forward to working with him over the international break to get him ready as soon as possible.”
Defender Departs on Loan
Defender Stephan Negru joined League Two side Bristol Rovers on a season-long loan.
The 23-year-old, who spent much of last season with former manager Karl Robinson at Salford, will be hoping for an injury-free campaign.
The defender, who joined the U’s in January 2023, has turned out 21 times for Oxford.
Oxford United Captain Leaves by Mutual Agreement
One hour before the deadline came to a close, Oxford announced that club captain Elliott Moore had left the club by mutual agreement.
The 28-year-old, who joined the club from Leicester in 2019, was appointed captain in December 2020.
The defender was a key part of the club for six seasons and turned out 242 times, including the League One playoff final at Wembley in 2024.
Before departing, Moore said: “This is an extremely difficult decision after six fantastic years at the club.
“I arrived as a young defender looking to settle and find a home. Little did I know that signing for Oxford United would be the start of something special, creating incredible memories along the way.
“I’m proud of everything we have achieved together from the heartache of Wembley to the joy of going back and getting the job done last May. To be the one who walked up those steps at Wembley and lift the trophy was a moment I’ll cherish forever.
“I want to thank all the players, managers, coaches, and backroom staff who have been part of my journey. Everyone has played a role in my time here and in the growth of this club.
“And to the fans. Thank you for taking me in and making me feel part of the Oxford United family from day one. It’s been a privilege to wear the badge and the captain’s armband. I’ve strived every day to represent the club and the supporters in the best possible way.
“This club has become my home, and I leave knowing it is in a fantastic place to continue to grow. I wish everyone at Oxford United the very best for this season and beyond and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.”
Dale Departs
At the end of the window, Oxford confirmed the loan departure of Owen Dale as he joined League One outfit, Plymouth.
Dale joined the U’s in January 2024 and turned out 30 times for the club, but, as previously mentioned, hasn’t been involved under Gary Rowett this season.
25-Man Squad Confirmed
On Thursday, Rowett confirmed his 25-man squad for the upcoming campaign.
Players under the age of 21 aren’t included, so the likes of summer signing Brodie Spencer, goalkeeper Jacob Knightbridge, and striker Gatlin O’Donkor fall under the bracket.
Simon Eastwood is the only senior to miss out, with Ciaron Brown and Ole Romeny included with the assurance they’ll be back from injury before January.
International Round-Up
Oxford striker Mark Harris played 25 minutes as Wales won 1-0 in Kazakhstan in their World Cup qualifier.
The U’s forward replaced goalscorer Kieffer Moore on 65 minutes as Wales held out for the victory.
Marselino Ferdinan was also in action and played 25 minutes for Indonesia in their 6-0 win over Chinese Taipei.
The young winger has been training in his home country this season following the pre-season tour.
Greg Leigh was the only starter and he played the full 90 minutes as Jamaica won 4-0 in Bermuda.
The left-back also added an assist for the second goal of their World Cup qualifier.
Oxford United Indonesian Wonderkid Loaned Out
Sticking with Indonesian winger Ferdinan, the 20-year-old joined Slovak First Football League side AS Trenčín on loan until the end of the season.
He joined Oxford last summer but only made one league appearance for the U’s in the final game of the campaign at Swansea.
