OXFORD United's hopes of signing Ellis Harrison may have been damaged by a deal out of their control.

The U's appeared to be closing in on the Portsmouth striker, but The News suggests the south coast side's unsuccessful pursuit of Jayden Stockley has derailed the move.

The former Preston North End forward joined Charlton Athletic instead of Pompey last Tuesday, the same day reports suggested United were in pole position to sign Harrison.

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Stockley was earmarked as the 27-year-old's replacement, according to The News, but with that move not materialising Fratton Park boss Danny Cowley is now thought to favour keeping the forward.

United looked to have seen off competition from Fleetwood Town for Harrison, who has scored 16 goals in 70 Portsmouth appearances.

The 27-year-old still has a year left on his contract, meaning the U’s would have to pay a fee – unlike Ryan Williams, who moved from Pompey earlier this month.

Cowley is thought to rate Harrison, who has not yet played under him due to a knee injury sustained before the manager's arrival in March.