Oxford United are in talks to sign Tottenham Hotspur youth star Jamie Donley on loan for the upcoming campaign according to BBC Sport.
Donley, who played a part in what was a memorable season for Spurs’ U21s as Wayne Burnett’s side won Premier League 2, is one of the star players in a hugely talented young squad. The England U19 international scored nine goals and laid on a staggering 17 assists in the Premier League 2 and EFL Trophy alone last term.
His ability and undeniable output impressed Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou enough to give Donley his Premier League debut against Manchester City at the Etihad in December before further appearances from the bench vs Newcastle United, Brentford and Burnley.
Postecoglou will therefore have a decision to make as to whether he allows the 19-year-old to leave on loan this summer. Although as per BBC Sport, Oxford are currently leading the race to secure Donley’s talents for 2024/25 as they prepare for life in the Championship.
Des Buckingham will be hoping to fill the attacking void left in his side by the departure of Josh Murphy, which was confirmed this week. Despite a lack of experience, Donley could bring that bit of gold dust that Murphy often provided to win the U’s a game, while also offering versatility with his ability to play as a forward or attacking midfielder.
Oxford are not the only ones pursuing the hotly tipped youngster though as Football London reports that Birmingham City are also interested in bringing Donley to St Andrew’s. Former Tottenham assistant and newly appointed Blues boss Chris Davies was an admirer of Donley during his year in North London, so Birmingham are expected to also be in the race to secure Donley’s signature.
Football London did also report that Tottenham will not entertain any offers to sell the player on a permanent basis.
Writer’s View
Jamie Donley is extremely highly regarded by many at Hotspur Way and so it is no surprise that a host of EFL clubs are battling it out for him this summer. However there have been countless promising names who have come and gone from the Tottenham academy over recent years so selecting the right loan could be crucial for Donley as he continues his development.
Oxford and Des Buckingham are no stranger to giving young players a chance, most notably 20-year-old Tyler Goodrham who played 40 times in League One last season for the play-off winners. A move to the Kassam Stadium could therefore be a beneficial one to Donley as he seeks regular minutes. However, with Oxford likely to be targeting survival, it could quickly become a difficult environment for a young player.
With that considered, a move to Birmingham City, who will be tipped for an immediate return to the second tier, could be seen as the more sensible option for Donley, while also providing the opportunity for him to work under a coach who knows and trusts him.
