MICHAEL Appleton has revealed Oxford United have multiple gentleman’s agreements in place to bring quality players into the squad during pre-season.

More than five weeks after the campaign finished, U’s fans are still waiting for the first new signing.

The only activity so far has been in the opposite direction, with Danny Hylton deciding to join Luton Town.

But Appleton is unconcerned by the lack of completed deals and his demeanour is partly explained by the informal agreements which have been arranged.

The United head coach would not be drawn into the details, but it would appear the club had shaken hands with higher-ranked clubs on loan moves for at least two players.

He said: “I’m very relaxed and we’ve got a lot of things that have been agreed on that I can’t make public at the minute, out of respect to the other clubs involved.

“But we have some fantastic talent who will be here come pre-season.

“We’ve had gentleman’s agreements with certain clubs and until they are prepared to let that out I will keep it as secretive as I can.

“They are proper good footballers.”

United have enjoyed a relatively good success rate in the loan market, particularly during the past 12 months.

The likes of George Baldock, Jordan Graham and Jonjoe Kenny have all contributed to the side and returned to parent clubs with their reputations enhanced.

Appleton said: “I think we’ve got a decent record in terms of players coming into us and going back to their clubs and doing well.

“Some of the bigger clubs are starting to recognise Oxford is a fantastic opportunity for some of their young players to showcase their skills and then come back to their clubs a better player and a better person.”

Negotiations also continue in the hunt for permanent signings, with contract offers on the table for several targets.

United’s promotion to Sky Bet League One means they are in the market for a higher calibre of player, but so far the figures being requested have not matched the club’s expectations.

Appleton is confident it will change over the next fortnight.

He said: “The fact we’re in League One it’s different – there’s no doubt about it, people are after top dollar.

“A lot of players and agents chance their arm at this time of the year.

“When it gets that bit closer to pre-season there’s a realisation they need to make a decision quickly.

“That’s when they become a bit more realistic.”