OXFORD United boss Karl Robinson fears he could miss out on Reading FC target Sam Smith due to the striker’s pre-season form.
Robinson is keen to bring in a new forward and has been chasing Smith for several weeks.
But he is concerned Royals boss Paul Clement will be reluctant to send the 20-year-old out on loan due to his recent performances.
Smith, who was handed the squad number 19 yesterday, has scored twice in warm-up matches against AFC Wimbledon and Besiktas to put himself in the first-team frame.
Robinson told the Oxford Mail: “It’s a worry, yes, because he’s their leading scorer in pre-season.
“We believe he will be available to a team in the near future. We just hope we’re in the hat.”
Smith’s chances of first-team football with the Royals could depend on Clement’s ability to bring in another striker, following strong links to Brighton’s Sam Baldock.
Sam Baldock in action for Brighton.
Former Manchester United trainee Smith scored twice in 13 appearances for Reading last season and U’s are one of a host of clubs to have shown interest during the transfer window.
Meanwhile, U’s are also believed to have offered former Reading FC midfielder Jem Karacan a contract earlier this week.
The Oxford Mail says the 29-year-old free agent is yet to make a decision, having left Bolton last season.
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