Louie Sibley Joins Oxford United

Louie Sibley Joins Oxford United

Oxford United are delighted to announce the signing of Louie Sibley on a free transfer.

The 22-year-old joins after leaving Derby County, where he progressed through their youth academy and into the first team, playing 173 times and scoring 20 goals.

The central midfielder played 44 times for Derby last season as they also won promotion from League One, and he will bring further Championship experience having played in the division over three seasons from 2019 to 2022.

Sibley has already joined the Oxford United squad as they prepare for the warm-weather training camp in Spain as preparations ramp up for the start of the season.

Speaking to the club for the first time since signing, he said: “It wasn’t a hard decision to make. Watching last season’s success, it’s something you want to be a part of.

"As soon as I knew of the interest, I just wanted to get this deal done.

“When I walk around the place, I get a feeling that it’s a club that is on the up. It’s a big decision for me, but I can’t wait to get started now.

“I want to be a midfielder in those areas where I can get on the ball and be in the pockets. I feel I’ve got that quality to drive past players and I want to give everything for the shirt.”

Head Coach, Des Buckingham, said: “Louie has been a very important player for his club since progressing into the first team, and we are delighted to bring someone of his quality into our group.

“To get a player that is still at such a young age and with so much experience in the football league is hugely exciting for us as a club. 

“We believe Louie will be a very positive addition to our group and will help us achieve our goals next season and beyond.

"We hope he can continue to develop as a player and make a significant impact going forward.”

Head of Recruitment, Ed Waldron, said: “Louie agreeing to sign for Oxford United is a fantastic endorsement for us as a football club.

“We are building an exciting squad for this Championship campaign with a good blend of youth and experience, and Louie fits perfectly across both areas.

“He is a player that we expect to make a positive influence in our midfield, and he arrives at an age where we hope Oxford United can get the best of his talents in this season and in the years to come."