PEP Clotet said Oxford United did all they could to keep John Lundstram before admitting defeat ahead of an expected move to Sheffield United today.

The Oxford Mail understands the U’s skipper turned down four separate contract offers, with the first one tabled halfway through last season.

And with the 23-year-old midfielder in the final year of his deal, United felt they had no other option but to sanction a move.

Lundstram was left out of the squad for last night’s 4-3 defeat to Brentford and afterwards Clotet revealed he expected the transfer to be agreed today.

The new United boss said: “The club tried everything in their hand to keep the player here because he was important for us.

“He was the captain and you should always give everything you can to the captain. You build the team around him.

“But it was clear he was keen on getting this opportunity now, so we respect it.”

He added: “I think John has given a lot of good moments to the club and has been a fantastic player for the last few years.

“If he thinks it’s time to move on then it’s his decision, but obviously he was in the last year of his contract.

“I expect to check all the paperwork tomorrow and hope the deal can be finalised then.”

Lundstram joined United in August 2015 following his release by Everton and quickly became a key member of Michael Appleton’s side.

The midfielder starred in the team which won automatic promotion from Sky Bet League Two that season, although a suspension meant he missed the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final at Wembley.

After Jake Wright left for Sheffield United 12 months ago, Lundstram was chosen to succeed him as captain.

And after a shaky start to life wearing the armband, he went on to become a consistent performer in League One last season.

But with aspirations to play in the Championship, Lundstram has resisted attempts to prolong his stay at United, for whom he made 104 appearances.

The fee involved has yet to emerge, but Clotet appeared happy.

He said: “John Lundstram is an important player who can play in the Championship and he must go for the value that reflects that.

“It’s good for him and the club.”

United are hoping to strike a deal with former Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson, who has been on trial and met Clotet after the game last night.

But they appear to have missed out on re-signing Chris Maguire, with reports emerging he was close to agreeing a move to Bury.