OXFORD United have completed their third summer signing with the addition of Josh McEachran.

The 30-year-old Oxford-born midfielder’s contract with MK Dons expires on June 30, and he follows Ruben Rodrigues and Jordan Thorniley as free transfer signings for the U’s.

United head coach Liam Manning worked with Chelsea academy product McEachran during his time as Dons head coach.

McEachran told the U’s club website: “Oxford is a city that means a lot to me and my family, and Liam Manning is someone I really enjoyed playing for during his time at MK Dons.

“When I found out Oxford United were interested in signing me, it was an easy decision to say yes. The club are putting together a really strong squad and I’m delighted to be part of it.”

Manning added: “Having worked with Josh, I know first-hand just how good he is, both as a player and a person.

“He has a fantastic ability to open games up and link the play. His vision and experience will be a real attribute for us.”

Ed Waldron, head of recruitment, said: “A lot of work has taken place behind the scenes to identify the players we want and to recruit them early. To add Josh to our two other signings this week puts us in a really good position as we plan for the new season.”

McEachran made 22 appearances for Chelsea as a youngster, while his time at Stamford Bridge included loan spells with Swansea City, Middlesbrough, Watford, Wigan Athletic and Dutch outfit Vitesse Arnhem.

He then signed for Brentford for a reported £750,000 in July 2015, before a move to Birmingham City four years later.

McEachran joined MK Dons as a free agent in March 2021.

Last season, he played 43 games for the club in all competitions as they were relegated to Sky Bet League Two.

He has two younger brothers in football – with 27-year-old Zac at Oxford City and 22-year-old George at Swindon Town.