OXFORD United are still on the lookout for a winger as they attempt to do some business before today’s transfer deadline.

Clubs have until 5pm to get deals over the line, after which they can only sign free agents until the window reopens in January.

Boss Karl Robinson has long stressed the need to add a left winger, but one of their top targets fell through this week.

Marcus Browne looked set to be available, but United’s hopes of bringing him on loan for a third time in as many seasons were ended after parent club Middlesbrough opted to keep him on Teesside.

That sent the club back to a narrowing list of possible options, but Robinson was wary about predicting what could happen today.

The message was they will only sign someone in that position if they improve the squad.

He said: “We are looking. We’ve limited it down to one or two.

“We know what we want, but is that person out there that makes us that much better for the finances we have? I’m not too sure.

“That’s a balancing act we’ve been playing for the last two weeks.”

Robinson has also talked about needing cover at left back, centre back and even central midfield in recent weeks.

As things stand, any other arrivals are expected to be young players outside of the salary cap who would be brought in with an eye on the future.

Rob Atkinson is fit to face Peterborough United tomorrow, while John Mousinho is due back later this month to bolster the resources at the heart of the defence.

Michael Elechi, who made his senior debut last week, potentially offers cover to Josh Ruffels at left back.

One alternative would be signing a winger who could play that role.

Robinson said: “It’s a forever changing world.

“Do you go for an out-and-out winger with pace and power, or do you go for a winger who can support the left back situation and save your money until January, or after the window closes?”

Keep up to date with all the news on deadline day by visiting our live blog from 7am at oxfordmail.co.uk/sport.

  • UNITED’S clash with Crewe Alexandra, cancelled for a second time on Tuesday, has been rearranged for Tuesday, November 17.

It will have a 7pm kick-off, as will their matches at Rochdale and Walsall on the previous two Tuesdays.