Crucial talks have been taking place which could save Oxford United.

Building work at Minchery Farm stadium re-started last October following a four-year delay, after city councillors agreed to grant planning permission for a multi-million pound leisure development next door.

But the future of the long-awaited development is in the balance because neighbouring landowner Les Wells claims he has a right of way across the site. The outcome of a High Court hearing on the issue is expected in the near future.

Les Wells has also won the right to a judicial review hearing in the High Court to contest planning permission for the leisure scheme. It will be heard on April 2, unless meetings with club owner Firoz Kassam prove fruitful.

Mr Wells said: "Mr Kassam and I have had two meetings, one on Friday and one the Friday before, to try to find a way forward. We have also spoken on the phone.

"We are trying to negotiate a deal because the last thing I want to see is the end of Oxford United.

"If all parties, including the city council, were prepared to pay their own legal costs, then I think there could be progress.

"We are now waiting to hear from the city council to see what they have to say."

David Taylor, legal adviser for the council, said he could not comment because of the pending court action.

When Mr Wells won the right to a judicial review in February, Mr Kassam warned that the future of the club was in doubt.