WITH seven signings through the door already this summer, Oxford United have made an impressive start in key areas during the transfer window.

In the defensive third, two goalkeepers have been snapped up (last season’s loanee Jamie Cumming, plus youngster Jacob Knightbridge), while full backs Peter Kioso and Jack Currie provide solid options in that area of the pitch.

The midfield department has seen eye-catching arrivals in Idris El Mizouni, Louie Sibley and Will Vaulks, as the U’s engine room now looks particularly strong.

Championship transfer tracker: All the summer deals in the second tier

Another goalkeeper to challenge Cumming will likely still be on the radar, but Currie’s signature means left back is probably sorted, with the former AFC Wimbledon man battling with Joe Bennett and Greg Leigh for that spot.

At right back, Kioso and Sam Long provide the current options, but with a lightness in numbers at centre half at the moment, Long’s versatility means he may fill in across the back line as and when required.

Another right back therefore wouldn’t be a surprise, while Ciaron Brown, James Golding, Elliott Moore and Jordan Thorniley are Des Buckingham’s current centre backs. One more is likely to be needed.

Unless there are departures, United’s midfield seems pretty well-stocked now, with Cameron Brannagan, Tyler Goodrham, Josh Johnson, Josh McEachran, Marcus McGuane and Ruben Rodrigues joining the aforementioned El Mizouni, Sibley and Vaulks.

It’s clear though that out wide should be the main priority for the U’s.

Josh Murphy’s decision to join Portsmouth was a blow, and leaves a hole to fill on the left wing.

Owen Dale out on the right is United’s only winger at the moment, although Goodrham, Leigh, and Mark Harris can all fill in there if needs be.

However, the set-up under Buckingham, with an emphasis on the wide players, means at least two or three wingers are likely to be sought.

Kyle Edwards could be thrown into the mix at this point, as he continues his rehabilitation at the club, following a couple of hamstring injuries last season.

Up front, Harris, Will Goodwin and Gatlin O’Donkor all provide different approaches in the final third, but only Harris boasts Sky Bet Championship experience, so another centre forward, plus perhaps a versatile front player, would be welcome additions to the squad.

There is of course plenty of time to go though before the Championship season kicks off, and the U’s have been bold so far in the market.

Credit has to go to head of recruitment Ed Waldron and the rest of his team, and if the incomings continue in the same vein as those already in the building, United should be well-placed to give this historic upcoming campaign a real fight.