Gary Rowett has admitted that Oxford United are set to explore European leagues as part of their transfer market plans.
The U’s avoided the drop in their first time back in the Championship for 25 years, finishing above relegated Luton Town by four points. Rowett came in mid-season as Des Buckingham was given the sack 20 games into the second-tier campaign.
Rowett Reveals European Interest
Speaking to the Oxford Mail about where the club are looking for potential signings across the summer, Rowett revealed that the club is interested in European markets. He said:
“We always want to find a blend. I’ll be very surprised if we don’t sign some players from European leagues this summer.
“I think there’s great value there. I’ve seen it before where not only is there great value to improve your team, but there’s great value to create an asset that maybe you can sell on at some point in the future as well, which is important.
“It’s important to any owner, it’s important to any club. I don’t think we’re going to sign every single player from a different league.
“I think culturally it takes a little bit of time to settle, but I would imagine there’ll be a couple of players that we’d be looking to try and bring in because I think they offer something very different.
“We’ll find a balance, but I think there’s good value and that’s what you’re looking for. You’re looking for the best players for the best possible value.”
Their scouting department has already begun its operations on the continent, with the Oxford Mail also reporting that the head coach and members of the recruitment team are heading to the Netherlands this week.
Writers’ View
European markets are always the best place to find some bargains and in a world where many clubs turn profits through sales, it is crucial for sides like Oxford United to get their summer players. Two of The U’s starters on the final day draw with Swansea City came from Eredivisie so it is understandable why the Dutch league is where Rowett starts his search first. But ultimately, whilst finding the next gem is important, even more crucial is to find players ready to improve their 17th-place finish next season.
