Championship newcomers Oxford United have launched a fresh bid to secure the signing of Blackpool defender Jordan Gabriel.
The 25-year-old wing-back has been the subject of interest for several months with the U’s reportedly battling it out with League One side Lincoln City for his signature. However, the Imps rejected suggestions that they were in the market for the player.
Now, according to Alan Nixon, Oxford have again returned for the player, but their offer is reportedly too low for the Seasiders. Gabriel joined the club in 2021 for an estimated £400,000 from Nottingham Forest and is entering the final year of his deal, although it is suggested that the club do hold the option to extend it for a further season.
He has made 105 appearances since linking up with the then second-tier side contributing five goals and three assists.
The player has previously had a spell at Scunthorpe United on loan as well as youth experience with Arsenal and Southend United.
Will Jordan Gabriel return to the Championship with Oxford?
The London-born defender joined Blackpool when they were in the Championship and the opportunity to return may be too good to turn down in what is ultimately a short career. He is due to turn 26 in September, meaning he is now firmly entering his ‘prime years’ as a footballer. To give himself the best chance of eventually playing in the Premier League, these are the sort of opportunities players have to take.
However, it is clear that there is a difference in valuation between the two sides, which will mean the play-off victors will have to up their offer if they want to bring him to the Kassam. Gabriel offers a huge amount of energy down the right-hand side and could be a vital addition to the Oxford defence as they look to contend with a greater level of opposition.
