Oxford United aim for two signings this week - but wait for Chris Maguire goes on

A quiet summer has given way to a burst of activity in the past ten days, with Arsenal loanee Dan Crowley the fifth new face in the door when he signed on Friday.

With the squad now back in pre-season training, United are keen to get most of their remaining business done before flying to Spain next Sunday.

The next deal could be wrapped up as early as today as head coach Michael Appleton continues building the squad.

He said: “I’m happy with where we are at the minute, but hopefully before we get on the plane to Spain there will be one or two more in the building.

“I’m hoping both will be permanent and then I would imagine between coming back from Spain and the start of the season there might be one or two loan deals.”

It is unclear whether Maguire will be among the signings, although as time goes by United’s patience is likely to wear thin.

The Scot, who scored four goals in 25 appearances for the side last season, was offered a contract in May.

He was initially given a fortnight to make a decision – a deadline which has long since passed.

Maguire’s situation is complicated by his family living in Scotland, but while the deal remains on the table, a frustrated Appleton hinted it would not be for much longer.

He said: “Obviously he has to have discussions with his agent, I don’t know how many discussions you need, but we will continue to wait.

“The reality is that opportunity will eventually go, though, because we won’t be prepared to wait (indefinitely).”

Appleton is also looking for clarity on whether he will lose any star names.

United have received multiple enquiries this summer, but nothing approaching their valuations for players such as Kemar Roofe.

And the head coach is keen to draw a line in the sand later this month.

He said: “I’d like to think the lads who come back from Spain (July 16) and feature in the Leicester game would be in the squad for the start of the season.”