Oxford United join Charlton defender transfer battle

The U’s are eyeing reinforcements following their relegation from the Championship last term, with eyes on promotion from League One for the 2026/27 campaign under Matt Bloomfield.

After announcing that 10 players would be leaving the club upon the expiry of their contracts and a further five loan figures returning to their parent clubs, United are left with just two senior centre backs in Ciaron Brown and Michal Helik.

The Yellows, who have been caught up in the recent Southampton ‘Spygate’ scandal, will need backup in the defensive areas if they are to mount a serious charge at the top of the table next year.

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Charlton centre half Mitchell has now been linked to the U’s, with the Kassam side reportedly joining the race to secure the 24-year-old’s signature according to Football League World.

EXCLUSIVE

Plymouth Argyle have been joined by Oxford United in the race to sign Charlton Athletic’s Alex Mitchell following the defender’s impressive loan stint at Home Park, Football League World understands

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— Football League World (@FootballLeagueW) June 2, 2026

The Addicks man spent last season on loan at Tom Cleverley’s Plymouth and was a favourite amongst the Pilgrims faithful, winning the Supporters’ Player of the Season award.

Mitchell played 40 times in League One, scoring three times and also winning the club’s Player of the Month award on two occasions.

Argyle are exploring a deal to bring the defender to Home Park permanently, with the player himself calling the move a “no-brainer”, however it is not a guaranteed move with Oxford reportedly set to battle it out for a permanent transfer.