PEP Clotet insists Oxford United tried hard to keep Chris Maguire, but respects his decision to turn down their contract offer.

The 28-year-old signed a two-year deal at Sky Bet League One rivals Bury earlier this week, ending hopes the fans’ favourite would return for a third season at the club.

Maguire finished as United’s top-scorer last year with a career-best 17 goals.

The Scottish international, who endeared himself to United supporters after holding up seven fingers at the County Ground following yet another win over arch rivals Swindon Town, was being chased by a number of clubs.

United’s bid to try to retain his services was complicated by the departure of head coach Michael Appleton to Leicester City.

Maguire had previously worked with the former U’s boss at Portsmouth and had forged a close relationship with him.

When Clotet was first unveiled as United’s new manager at the start of the month he made clear he would listen to advice from his staff about recruitment targets.

Derek Fazackerley, the club’s No 2, told the Oxford Mail there had already been contact with Maguire.

And Clotet yesterday confirmed he had then spoken to the player.

The club had made him an offer to stay, but Maguire decided against re-signing and will instead line up against United this season for the Shakers.

Clotet said: “I had a good conversation with him, a very good conversation.

“We spoke about football, the team, the league.

“I value a lot what he did for the club last season.

“We made a good offer for him to stay in terms that we thought it was the best offer we could give.

“Obviously, he is free to check his options and he took another decision.

“I respect him for that.”

Maguire will line up alongside some familiar faces at Gigg Lane, with former U’s teammates Joe Skarz and Phil Edwards both joining Lee Clark’s side this summer.

Oxford travel to Bury on Tuesday, September 26, and host them on Saturday, January 20.