Oxford United have unveiled a Deadline Day purchase of Filip Krastev. The player arrives from Lommel and will be Gary Rowett’s seventh signing of a busy summer window.
The 23-year-old will offer a versatile attacking option for Oxford, specialising as a left-winger who can also slot into the attacking midfield area. Krastev spent last season on loan at PEC Zwolle and featured 46 times for the Eredivisie side. This ambitious signing has featured in several countries across Europe.
Krastev is a former Bulgaria international who featured in his international side’s Nations League campaign – appearing seven times. The winger began his career with Slavia Sofia and moved to Lommel in 2020. Loan spells have taken him around the continent, with temporary stints at Troyes, Cambuur, Levski Sofia, Los Angeles FC and PEC Zwolle culminating in this permanent move to the Yellows.
Rowett’s latest signing had this to say on his latest career move to England:
“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.”
The Oxford manager is very pleased to add attacking quality to a strong outfit ahead of an important Championship season:
“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.”
Writer’s View
Oxford United have landed an exceptionally talented player for Championship level. The Bulgarian is a creative winger who has put up tremendous numbers in the Netherlands’ top flight. Krastev will provide competition to this area, but most importantly offer a new profile for Rowett’s side.
