Manager Chris Wilder is delighted by the capture of Peter Leven after the midfielder agreed to sign from MK Dons.

Leven, 27, turned down a new deal at the League One club and a number of other offers to sign a two-year contract with Oxford United, before he jetted off with his new teammates for their pre-season of America yesterday.

The Glaswegian, who becomes Wilder’s seventh summer signing, played 45 games for the Dons last season, scoring eight goals.

“He has undeniable quality which comes from playing at the top of the division and has become one of their main players,” said Wilder.

“Peter’s got good desire and is a good age. We managed to squeeze him onto the flight because I was very keen on him getting to know the other players.”

Wilder added: “He’s a left-footed central midfielder, which is what I have been looking for, and they are are very hard to come by.

“I’m really excited with this signing and I’m now putting the finishing touches to the squad.

“He was offered a deal (by MK Dons) and there was some interest (from other clubs), but the talks broke down and we have acted really quickly to get him here.

“He’s played the majority of his time at a higher level, so hopefully he will only have to wait a season to get back there, but there are 15 or 16 other clubs that are fighting to do the same thing.”

Leven started his career at Ran-gers and had spells at Kilmarnock and Chesterfield before signing for MK Dons.

He said he had no qualms about dropping down a level.

Asked what made him make the switch, he said: “You just look at the facilities, the training ground and the stadium, and the way they play football.

“I’m hoping to bring a good passing range and to weigh in with a few goals.

“I had the choice of staying in League One, but I’ve never had a promotion in my career. I think Oxford have got what it takes – you look at the set-up and the players.

“I want to achieve things. I’d love to emulate Gazza (Paul Gascoigne) on the playing side. He was at Rangers when I was there and he was a genius.”

Meanwhile, transfer-listed pair striker Matt Green and defender Ben Purkiss are in talks with unnamed clubs.