OXFORD United sealed two deals in an afternoon – and that could be the end of their business this summer.

The biggest missing piece of the jigsaw was solved when they revived a loan move for striker Matty Taylor which had looked dead on Saturday night.

And on the back of his season-long loan move from Bristol City, who have a recall option, United added to their midfield options.

George Thorne signed from Derby County until January as he looks to rebuild a career halted by injuries.

Also read: U's 'ecstatic' to complete Matty Taylor deal 

United had been keen to bring in a wide player, especially following Malachi Napa’s broken leg last week.

But boss Karl Robinson admitted the investment required to bring in Taylor in particular ruled out any potential bid for anyone else.

He said: “We’re not going to bring in a winger now.

“Shandon (Baptiste)’s doing that well that he can play there and we know Daniel (Agyei) can play off one of the wings.

“We have to give a little bit back when you’re signing a player of Matty Taylor’s quality.

“You can’t afford to do everything and that was a sacrifice I’m willing to make.

“That’s the way we’ve gone with it. We have players who can play wide, I think Fordey (Anthony Forde) has made a big impression.”

While Thorne may have to wait for his debut after a disrupted pre-season, Taylor is likely to be in the squad for tonight’s Sky Bet League One game at home to Burton Albion.

Also read: George Thorne has point to prove at Oxford United

It comes more than a decade after the 29-year-old was released by the U’s after just a handful of substitute appearances.

The striker dropped into non-league with Didcot Town and North Leigh, where his prolific record began a climb up the pyramid to the Championship with Bristol City.

“It’s been some journey,” he said.

“It was devastating at the time, I got released twice (by United), but that helped me in the long run and made me the player I am today.

“I’ve gone on and scored goals here, there and everywhere.

“I’m just delighted to be here and hopefully I can score a few more.”

When he gets up and running, Thorne has a point to prove.

The cultured midfielder was a rising star in the Championship, but has suffered three serious injuries and since returning to fitness has struggled for game time.

He said: “I’m only 26 and I’ve got my best years ahead of me.

“The best thing for me is to go and play and remind everyone what I’m capable of.

“That’s exactly what I’ve come here to do.”