OXFORD United were in negotiations to break their transfer record earlier this month, but reports in Norway say the player rejected the move.

According to newspaper Stavanger Aftenblad, Julian Ryerson turned down the chance in Sky Bet League One because he was looking to play at a higher level.

A fee of 6 million kroner (just under £550,000) was quoted, which if it went through would surpass the record £470,000 fee for Dean Windass in 1998.

Ryerson is believed to be the player U's chairman Darryl Eales, assistant head coach Derek Fazackerley and then head coach Pep Clotet flew to meet earlier this month.

The 20-year-old is a right back who can also play in midfield for Viking Stavanger. The club, where Clotet worked as an assistant coach in 2012, were relegated from the top-flight Eliteserien last season.

When discussing the trip last week, the Spaniard said the target was not on the cards for a move in January, but felt there was potential in the future.

Clotet's sacking yesterday, plus Ryerson's stance, would appear to end United's interest in the Norway Under 21 international.