Oxford United star Stan Mills to sign for Preston in January

Mills has been the subject of interest from second-tier clubs throughout the summer transfer window, with Paul Heckingbottom’s Preston the most keen on his services.

The U’s insisted that the club will not let anyone leave this summer with the club currently in a temporary transfer embargo and unable to replace any outgoing players.

Former Arsenal midfielder Ramsey confirmed that the club has reached an agreement with the Lilywhites for the transfer of Mills in the new year.

“[Mills] has agreed a deal to go to Preston in January,” the Yellows boss announced in his pre-match press conference ahead of the League One opening match against MK Dons.

“It’s far from ideal, I can totally understand that, being one day before the beginning of the season.

“But what it does mean is that we get Stan now for the next four or five months.

“And then when January comes around, we’ll be in a completely different position where we can be really aggressive in the market.

“But for me now, having worked with Stan over the last six weeks, he’s shown me the professionalism that he has.

READ MORE: Oxford United’s challenging 2026/27 League One season predicted

READ MORE: Mystery surrounds unknown Oxford United on League One return

“He’ll be wanting to put in performances for the fans, but also for 20 of his mates in that locker room as well.

“Stan will be here on September 1.

“I think that this is a situation that can work and that he can be fully committed to.

Oxford United winger Stan Mills has agreed to join Preston in January (Image: ©Jason Dawson)

“And then, like I said, January come around, we’re in a completely different position than where we can look to really strengthen.”

Another name that has drawn interest is Brian De Keersmaecker who has not featured for Oxford in pre-season or in last week’s Carabao Cup defeat at Leyton Orient.

His situation is slightly different in that he has a release clause in his contract.

Ramsey went on to reiterate the club’s stance on players currently contracted to the club.

“I think the owner’s statement has been pretty clear that we’re retaining this squad.

“We’re going to need every single one of them, obviously with the situation that we’re in and we can’t bring anybody in.

“I’m going to need everybody available for that.”