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.

Reading Chronicle:

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.