Oxford United Star Brian De Keersmaecker Attracting Exit Interest After Relegation

Oxford United could face another significant setback this summer as speculation surrounding midfielder Brian De Keersmaecker continues to grow following the club’s relegation from the Championship. The Belgian has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in Oxford’s squad, with several clubs reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of the new campaign.

After a disappointing season that ended with Oxford dropping into League One, the club is preparing for a major rebuild. While several players have already departed following the expiry of their contracts, there is increasing concern that key first-team stars could also push for moves away in search of football at a higher level.

Among those attracting the most attention is De Keersmaecker. The midfielder impressed despite Oxford’s struggles, earning praise for his composure on the ball, work rate, and ability to dictate play in midfield. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with reports suggesting clubs from both the Championship and abroad are keeping a close eye on his future.

Although there has been no official transfer request from the player, recent reports indicate that remaining in League One may not be his preferred option if a suitable offer arrives. Oxford are understood to value the midfielder highly, but the financial realities following relegation could force the club to consider lucrative bids if they materialise.

The uncertainty surrounding Oxford’s situation has only increased after the club was recently hit with a temporary transfer embargo linked to financial regulations. While the issue is expected to be resolved, it has complicated preparations for the new season and made retaining top players even more challenging.

New head coach Aaron Ramsey faces a difficult balancing act as he attempts to build a squad capable of securing an immediate return to the Championship. Losing one of his standout midfielders would represent a major blow, particularly given De Keersmaecker’s importance in both defensive and attacking phases of the game.

Oxford supporters will be hoping the club can convince the Belgian to stay for at least another season. His experience and consistency could prove invaluable in a demanding League One campaign, where promotion will be the primary objective. However, if ambitious Championship clubs submit attractive offers, Oxford may find it difficult to keep hold of one of their most influential performers.

The club has already confirmed a lengthy list of departures following the end of the 2025/26 season, including Przemysław Płacheta, Hidde ter Avest, Owen Dale, Stuart Findlay and several others whose contracts expired. Those exits underline the scale of the rebuilding job facing Ramsey and his coaching staff.

For now, De Keersmaecker remains an Oxford United player, and there has been no official announcement confirming that he will leave. Nevertheless, transfer interest is expected to intensify as the window progresses, with clubs likely to test Oxford’s resolve before the start of the new League One season.

Whether Oxford can keep hold of one of their prized assets may ultimately depend on the club’s financial position, the lifting of the transfer embargo, and the size of any offers received. Until then, De Keersmaecker’s future is set to remain one of the biggest talking points surrounding Oxford United this summer.